Illuminating Nails: Journeying with Styled by Viola

Hey there, nail bloomers! We’ve got something extraordinary lined up for you today. I’ve been eagerly waiting to introduce you to a new gem in the nail art world.

These interviews are where my heart lies, and I couldn’t be more thrilled to spotlight the incredible talent of Jasmine, aka Viola, the creative force behind Styled by Viola.

So, get comfy because we’re about to learn about Jasmine’s journey, which is filled with honest conversation and endless inspiration.

Read more of our interviews featuring Nail Artists in the U.S.

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Polished Perceptions: Inside Jaden’s Bespoke Nail Art World

Meet Nail Artist, Shakira, Where Creativity Flourishes, One Unique Design at a Time

Exploring Khanya’s Nail Journey: An Exclusive Interview

Can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Hi there. My name is Jasmine, and I am also known professionally as Viola via Styled by Viola. I’m a licensed/traveling nail tech and nail artist.

I specialize in Lux Gel manicure and pedicure services in New York City. I also create custom and limited-edition reusable press-on nails.

What moments shaped your journey as a nail artist, and what inspired you to pursue this path?

I’ve always been creative and interested in visual as well as performance arts. Over the past 15-20 years, nail artistry has been my passion and artistic outlet. I’m now in my mid-30s.

As a Mom and adult, self-care is essential. I wanted to learn more about the fundamentals, evolving techniques, and health benefits of nail & skin care, so of course, it starts with going to school and getting the proper training.

How do you maintain your artistic vision while meeting client preferences and expectations?

While I accept and welcome client ideas,, I also keep the consultations transparent and open. I love challenging myself as a nail artist, but I also want my customers and clients to walk away happy.

Creating my own style of press on nails helps with that as well. I can be as creative as I want.

What challenges do you face as a BIPOC woman in the online nail art space, and how do you overcome them to establish your niche in the industry?

The beauty industry is still pretty cutthroat. There are still systematic barriers that we must overcome. Especially as nail artists and/or techs. And then, of course, adding being a woman of color, specifically a black woman, doors sometimes closed before we can get to them.

I stay true to my craft, take pride in my work and the experiences that I offer people, and, most importantly, celebrate myself—the big wins and the small ones. It is progress and a move in the right direction.

Have you had to pivot in your nail art career? If so, could you share a specific instance?

Towards the start of my nail career, while still taking nail tech courses, I had an honest conversation with myself. I just wanted to make sure I was okay with how I wanted to run my business and what my demographic would be.

I didn’t want to sacrifice things that were important to me. This mindset shaped who I am now, as a business woman and parent, because I was able to tackle some issues and map out short/long-term goals.

What’s an unexpected aspect of your creative process?

My creative process is pretty simple. I pull inspiration from everywhere, everything from fashion, art, and the environment. Most of my creative ideas, which most people do not know, are that I save a lot of these ideas in my head.

Sometimes, I’ll sketch these ideas out, but most of the time, my idea goes from my imagination to the nails.

Could you share your biggest mistake, starting as a nail artist, and the lesson you learned?

Overshopping was definitely a hard financial learning experience. It happens a lot, especially as a newbie. You think you need to have everything, which is not the case at all.

When it comes to nail art items, buying in bulk should only be done when you have confirmed that you’re consistently using more of that product(s).

What’s your favorite nail design to create and why?

I love a good marble design. No nail looks exactly like the other. You can use as many colors as you want and add 3D art to it.

What’s your preferred nail polish brand, and why?

I love Kokoist, Apres Nails, Madame Glam, and V Beauty products. Quality products are essential to me. All of these brands mentioned coincide with the luxury services that I offer.

What’s your go-to nail tool and why?

I’m investing in an electrical foot callus remover/file. It makes giving pedicures easier on my body and more effective.

What’s the biggest misconception about nail artistry in your view?

There are quite a few, but the biggest misconception about nail artistry is the lack of work overall—the skill and time that goes into each set.

If you could swap roles with another nail artist for a day, who would you choose and why?

What about their work or approach inspires or intrigues you?

I wouldn’t want to switch places with anyone else, but I’m most inspired by VivXue via Pamper Nail Gallery. I’m inspired by her journey as a nail artist. She’s open and honest when sharing her experience and journey.

I love to see what new portrait nails she creates. The process of how intricate and how long it takes to do these sets is always inspiring.

Which Instagram nail artists inspire your growth and development in nail artistry?

I’m most inspired by Courtney Cantwell and Nails of Jackie. I would love to take a class offered by her. She makes creating look fun and simple enough to follow, but the outcome is always beautiful.

What advice would you give someone starting in the nail art industry?

Stay true to yourself, keep learning, and have fun! You’re not “trying”—you’re doing it!

Where are you based? Are you currently accepting new clients, and if so, how can someone book with you?

I am based in New York City. I’m not currently accepting new clients, but I do keep my followers updated via my IG @styledbyviola.