Discovering extraordinary talent is always a thrill, and I’ve recently come across a gem in the nail art world. Narina, based in the heart of NYC, has been enchanting the industry for 11 years with her unique anime and cartoon character nail art.
Moving from her musical beginnings to becoming a respected nail artist, Narina’s story is as engaging as a well-told tale. Her journey is rich with intricacies, much like the designs she creates. \
We invite you, our readers, to delve into her narrative. Beyond her stunning nail art, there’s a captivating personal journey waiting to be explored.
Scroll down to learn more about her story.
Narina Chan, a NYC-based nail artist with over a decade of experience, seamlessly fused her musical roots with the vibrant world of nail artistry. Renowned for her anime and cartoon character designs, Narina’s journey unfolds as a captivating melody, transcending traditional narratives and leaving an indelible mark on the industry.
What inspired you to become a nail artist?
I started out just wanting money, but eventually, I loved it.
How do you navigate the online space as a nail artist, especially as a BIPOC woman?
Stay true to your style, and try to not let anything trendy/popular divert your style.
Please take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do.
My name is Narina Chan, and I am a nail artist based in NYC. I’ve been doing nails for 11 years and specialize in anime/cartoon character nail art. I’ve worked on many things, including editorials, NYFW, film/TV, celebrities, campaigns, etc.
If you could go back in time, would you choose a different profession or specialty?
No, I wouldn’t change a thing.
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?
Making my own products was kind of pivoting, but all the products I’ve created are related to nails. For example, I’ve made my nail art brushes and gel palettes.
Can you share your “backstory” with us?
I was a musician before I started doing nails. I have an AAS degree in music production. But as a musician, I wasn’t making enough money, and I was tired of working in restaurants, so that’s when I started to learn how to do nails at a local nail salon across the street from my house. I eventually started to love this career, and I’m still doing it 11 years later.
Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you started your career? What were the main lessons or takeaways from that story?
At first, I didn’t know that doing nails on set for photoshoots was a career. I thought owning a nail salon would be the ultimate goal. But it seems like I was wrong. I was lucky enough to have some makeup artist friends asking me to do nails for the models during a photoshoot.
And I didn’t know that was a thing. I kept doing it for a while; eventually, I was signed to an agency and got to do many things that I didn’t know I could do, like for movies and films.
I would say there are many outlets when doing nails. I don’t do photoshoots anymore, but I’m still around to do other things, like collaborating with brands and events and making my own products. It really depends on where you want to be in your career.
Can you share a story about the biggest mistake you made when you first started as a nail artist?
Burning bridges from other nail colleagues. But I would not change a thing because whatever happened became who I am today.
What advice would you give someone starting in the nail art industry?
Be willing to learn everything. Listen to constructive criticism. Everyone will make mistakes, but the most important thing is how you will change them in the future.
What is your favorite nail design to create and why?
I label my style as intricate but not extravagant. I just love doing flat art and anime-themed nails.
What is your favorite nail polish brand to use and why?
I’m a leaf gel educator, so I love their products; most Japanese gels are highly pigmented and super long-lasting on clients.
What is your favorite nail tool to use and why?
My own detail brush! I’ve made it so I can draw the tiniest lines!
In your opinion, what is the biggest misconception about nail artistry?
We just sit all day and paint nails. But there are so many other things that we’re doing!
Where are you based, and what is your email address?
New York City, narina.noir@gmail.com, or follow along with me on Instagram at narinanails
Thank you for taking the time to complete this interview! Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers?
If you would like to get anime/gaming-related nails. Please come visit me!
