Exploring Khanya’s Nail Journey: An Exclusive Interview

Brace yourselves as I introduce you to the sensational Khanya, an extraordinary nail artist hailing from the heartlands of Kansas but now gracing the vibrant streets of NYC.

I couldn’t be more thrilled to share her remarkable journey, a true testament to dedication, creativity, and the power of self-expression. Get ready to be dazzled by Khanya’s unparalleled talent and infectious passion for the art of nail care and design.

Loving our Nail Interview Series? Check our other interviews featuring talented nail artists around the world:

Polished Perceptions: Inside Jaden’s Bespoke Nail Art World

Nail Narratives: Bella Li’s Artistic Journey

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

Khanya is a seasoned nail artist known for her decade-long expertise in natural nail care, fine line, and hand-painted art, currently based in NYC.

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Please take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do.

My name is Khanya, and I’m a nail artist originally from Kansas but now based in NYC. I’ve been doing nails for 10 years, focusing on natural nail care and health. My specialty is fine line and handpainted nail art. Since living in NY, I’ve expanded my portfolio while doing editorials, NYFW campaigns, and celebrities.

What pivotal moments shaped your journey into the nail art world, and what inspired you to become a nail artist?

I have always been creative and hands-on as a kid, and I used to do my own nails in high school. Eventually, I decided to go to school for it.
To be honest, I started out with the idea that I’d make enough money to pay for college, and eventually, it became my career. And I’ve loved every moment of it.

It’s important to understand that it’s a community and not a competition, so I was surrounded by people who were willing to help me with any questions I had about nails and art. I also want to shout out to my best friend, who I consider my nail mentor, Donna Cao, who paved the way for my nail career.

How do you balance staying true to your artistic vision while meeting your client’s preferences and expectations?

I’m still trying to strike that balance, I love my clients, and I understand that what works for them in their life + lifestyle doesn’t necessarily gel with some of the art that I’d love to do here and there, so I’m extra grateful for the opportunities that clients bring me non-nail inspo or allow me to freestyle.

As a BIPOC woman in the online nail art space, what challenges and opportunities do you encounter, and how do you navigate them to forge your own path in the industry?

I’ve been fortunate in this regard; I’ve been able to connect with other BIPOC artists and create a community where we’ve been able to share our positive and constructive experiences.

Highlighting community is really important because I’ve been able to navigate the nail space because of the friends and mentors I’ve made.

Have you ever had to pivot in your career as a nail artist? Can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

All the time. Especially for nails, it’s constantly changing, especially for nails, and you have to keep up with what’s new and healthier. I’ve pivoted every couple of years.

I went from salon to salon, trying to get out of the nail industry, so I worked odd jobs and made press-ons during the pandemic, then finally learned how to be my own boss.

What’s one surprising aspect of your creative process that people might not expect?

I prefer my clients to send me inspo before so I can prepare beforehand and have an idea of timing, but I also wing it when I do art.

For the most part, it’s worked in my favor, but sometimes I’ll do something, and it doesn’t turn out how I envisioned, so I’ll restart or be honest with my client, and maybe we’ll end up with a different concept.

What was your biggest mistake as a novice nail artist, and what valuable lesson did you glean from it?

My biggest mistake was when I first graduated from nail school; I needed to figure out which salon to choose from, so I talked to multiple salons. I didn’t know how small of a community it was, and the owners knew each other and spoke about me being interested in their salons, and in the end, shamed me for considering my options.

I had to learn that although I was weighing out my options, unfortunately, I also learned that not everyone is always rooting for you.

What is your favorite nail design to create and why?

I love hand-painted art and doing old English font. I also really enjoy when clients send non-nail inspo because the options are endless and original to your own style.

What is your favorite nail polish brand to use and why?

I love using luminary, presto, Kokoist, luxa, and madam glam. They’re all high-quality products.

What is your favorite nail tool to use and why?

I love using Donna C’s demo detailer brush. I use it for everything, especially to draw thin and tiny lines.

In your opinion, what is the biggest misconception about nail artistry?

A common misconception is that every nail artist is expected to know how to do every art shown to them when, in reality, people have their specialties. As long as artists communicate and are honest with clients about their skills and abilities, there should be a level of understanding.

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

What about their work or approach inspires you?

There are so many amazing artists, but one who stood out to me was Cocamichelle; she does Meg the Stallions nails, and I was always inspired by how beautiful they always were and how often she did them! Just to be able to meet so many other talented people doing what we do is inspiring.

Which nail artist Instagram accounts inspire and educate you the most, and how do they contribute to your growth?

@donnacao_ & @ciaonailco & @themattehaus & @luminarynailsystems All I learned and cultivated in my nail career has been from these accounts. They go in depth for art, nail health, and nail care.

I also enjoy @anouskaanastasia’s content! I love all of the 3d and sculpting, and she’s inspiring me to test my own limits as well. @tracykawaii has significantly contributed to my growth by offering me incredible opportunities I wouldn’t otherwise receive.

And so many other amazing artists I’ve met and am inspired by, especially since moving to NYC.

What advice would you give to someone who is just starting out in the nail art industry?

To stay consistent and keep practicing. Never get discouraged by comparing your work to someone else’s. And to understand that this is a community and never stop learning and sharing your knowledge!

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

I’m based in NYC and share a studio in Brooklyn. I am accepting new clients, and they can book by messaging me on IG @ khanyadith