Goldwell Art Squad, Powered by Mark Leeson
Could you be part of the 2026 Goldwell Art Squad?
We’re on the hunt for the next generation of creative talent in British hairdressing, and this could be your moment.
Do you know a stylist who’s ready to step into the spotlight? Or are you a stylist looking to elevate your skills, unleash your creativity, and take your career to the next level?
The 2026 Goldwell Art Squad, led by award-winning global artist Mark Leeson, is a unique, opportunity to be mentored by one of the most celebrated names in the industry and become part of an elite team shaping the future of British hairdressing.
Programme Overview
London & Mansfield
6 Full Training Days
2 Professional Photoshoots
The Goldwell Art Squad is designed to elevate salon work, enhance technical skills, and ignite creativity by fusing catwalk inspiration with the latest session styling trends.
You’ll be mentored directly by Mark Leeson as you embark on a transformative journey that will:
Develop your artistic flair
Expand your creative and technical boundaries
Build confidence on stage and in front of the camera
Highlights
Discover the essential skills and experiences that will take your creativity and confidence to new heights.
Colouring
Explore precise colour placement, learn how to merge colour with cut and shape, and stay ahead of emerging fashion-led colour trends.
Cutting
Master the fundamentals and refine commercial techniques to strengthen everyday salon work.
Styling
Learn behind-the-scenes techniques for shoots and shows, gaining the versatility needed to evolve into a platform artist.
Creative
Advance your skill set with
deconstruction, razor cutting,
and techniques essential for
photographic and editorial.
Photoshoot
Bring your full creative journey
to life in a professional shoot
that showcases your transformation and talent.
Beyond the Classroom
Art Squad members will
also take part in
Key Dates & Sessions
Art Squad Auditions:
Sunday, 25 January 2026 -
Goldwell Academy
Dates:
Sunday 22nd Feb - Monday 23rd February
Module 1
Location:
Mark Leeson Salon Mansfield
Time:
9:30am- 5:30pm
Kick off your Art Squad journey with a full introduction to Goldwell, meet your fellow team members, and discover what lies ahead in this exciting programme.
Over the two days, you will dive into Creative Fusion - an advanced cutting and colouring module designed to elevate your fundamentals with innovative techniques, creative colour placement, and fusion skills that enhance both salon and editorial work.
Dates:
Monday 27th April
Module 2
Location:
Mark Leeson Salon Mansfield
Time:
9:30am- 5:30pm
Kick off your Art Squad journey with a full introduction to Goldwell, meet your fellow team members, and discover what lies ahead in this exciting programme.
Over the two days, you will dive into Creative Fusion - an advanced cutting and colouring module designed to elevate your fundamentals with innovative techniques, creative colour placement, and fusion skills that enhance both salon and editorial work.
Dates:
Monday 29th June
Module 3
Location:
Mark Leeson Salon Mansfield
Time:
9:30am- 5:30pm
Kick off your Art Squad journey with a full introduction to Goldwell, meet your fellow team members, and discover what lies ahead in this exciting programme.
Over the two days, you will dive into Creative Fusion - an advanced cutting and colouring module designed to elevate your fundamentals with innovative techniques, creative colour placement, and fusion skills that enhance both salon and editorial work.
Dates:
Monday 10th and Tuesday 11th August
Module 4
Location:
Goldwell Academy
Time:
8:30am- 5:30pm
Kick off your Art Squad journey with a full introduction to Goldwell, meet your fellow team members, and discover what lies ahead in this exciting programme.
Over the two days, you will dive into Creative Fusion - an advanced cutting and colouring module designed to elevate your fundamentals with innovative techniques, creative colour placement, and fusion skills that enhance both salon and editorial work.
Dates:
Monday 10th and Tuesday 11th August
Module 5
Location:
Goldwell Academy
Time:
8:30am- 5:30pm
Kick off your Art Squad journey with a full introduction to Goldwell, meet your fellow team members, and discover what lies ahead in this exciting programme.
Over the two days, you will dive into Creative Fusion - an advanced cutting and colouring module designed to elevate your fundamentals with innovative techniques, creative colour placement, and fusion skills that enhance both salon and editorial work.
Key Information &
Terms and Conditions
Stylists must be available to attend all programme dates, and the Art Squad is open to participants from all Goldwell salons.
Salon Investment:
£2,150
Spaces Available:
Up to 8 stylists
Requirements:
Applicants must be qualified hairdressers and colourists with at least 4 years of hairdressing experience, including an NVQ Level 2 and a minimum of 2 years in a salon.
How To Enter
Online applications:
Open from Monday, 24 November - Monday, 5 January
In-person audition:
Sunday, 25 January 2026 (all selected entries must be available)
Complete the below application
An artistic, fashion-forward image showcasing before and after results of an exceptional colour, cut, and finish (mannequins are acceptable)
Examples of what inspires you in your creative world (include images)
1
Live Audition
Following online applications, finalists will be invited to attend a live audition. You will be asked to:
Re-create the look from your uploaded image on a mannequin in front of a panel of judges
Present a mood board explaining the ideas behind your cut and colour during a 1-to-1 interview with the judges
2
Notification of successful candidates
Successful applicants will be notified by Friday, 6 February 2026, ready to kick off the first session on Sunday 22nd February.
3
I feel lucky to have worked with such a talented and supportive team.
This journey has been so valuable to my creativity. It’s great to be part of something truly special.
Emma Jones, New Wave Hair
After 24 years with Goldwell, it's an honour
to be on the Art Team.
Showcasing the beautiful colours in the portfolio and pushing the boundaries.
Luke Golson, Golson
I’ve always looked
up to Mark.
I remember when I was in the British Junior Team and he was competing alongside my dad,
who was my mentor.
Gemma Miles, Hair by Phillip
HUB Membership
Please complete the below form to register your interest in HUB membership.