This week we caught up with Imagine, a freelance nail artist based in Omaha, Nebraska.

The Trend: Evil eye designs are steadily becoming more and more popular as they make their rounds among celebrities, trendsetters, and nail art daredevils. The evil eye manicure typically features a side eye sitting pretty within a half moon design that’s surrounded by a solid base. Nail artist, Imagine, re-imagined (see what we did there!) the  by adding crystals, and picking a fresh eye color.

Read on to learn more about this edgy manicure and the artist behind it.

EBONY: What inspired the design?

Imagine: The inspiration for the design came from my client wanting an evil eye design, but with a twist. The [term] “side eye” is so relevant to her life (mine too) and bling is always a good idea.

EBONY: How was the design created?

Imagine: To make the design, I used a small paintbrush, dotting tool, and gel polish. The base color is “Fushanista” by Ink. The [whites of the] eyes are “Verona Lace” by Cuccio. [Most of] the irises are “Want to Cuddle” by Gelish, but some are custom mixes with that color and Ink’s “In the Tropics” and “Sweet Caress.”

EBONY: How did you become a nail artist?

Imagine: I spent a lot of time hanging out by myself as a kid. I was pretty much an only child. Painting nails was something I could do alone. Over the years, it has evolved into a wonderful creative outlet and business. Currently, I freelance, but I plan to open a salon later this year with my older sister who does amazing locs.

EBONY: What do you feel is your artistic significance when it comes to nail art?

Imagine: My ultimate goal is to always give my clients nails they can’t wait to show off. For different people, that could mean having their nails fully blinged out or just a nice solid shade. I customize the experience for each person that comes to me.

Check out more designs by Imagine on Instagram.

Loren Lee