This week we caught up with Raquel Nevarez, a freelance nail artist based in Brooklyn, New York.

The Trend: Our favorite television shows manage to stay on our minds even after each episode ends. If quoting unforgettable lines or collecting show-inspired items are no longer enough, take the DIY route and look to the TV-inspired manicure.

Our featured nail artist, Raquel Nevarez, expressed her infatuation with Game of Thrones (HBO’s hit fantasy TV show) with a cool dragon egg nail design. The amazing artistry behind the creation cannot be denied.

Read on to learn more about this manicure inspired by Game of Thrones and the nail artist behind it.

EBONY: Raquel, what inspired the design?

Raquel Nevarez: I love Game of Thrones, so when my favorite clothing brand Black Milk came out with a line of Game of Thrones-inspired pieces, I was all over that. These nails were inspired by one of their dragon egg skirts.

EBONY: How was the design created?

RN: I painted the nail a true red color, then, using a makeup sponge, I dabbed on different shades of red, and then lastly black and white. I then used my favorite black Stripe Rite Brush to create triangular “scales” from the cuticle area of my nail plate to the free edge. I added a triangle gold stud in the “scale” nearest my cuticle using nail glue and then sealed with a topcoat.

EBONY: How did you become a nail artist?

RN: Two years ago, I was a veterinarian technician student when a classmate suggested I paint my nails to steady my hand for some of the difficult procedures. I became obsessed with painting my nails, and then my best friend introduced me to nail art tutorials on YouTube. I realized I was pretty good at them, and the rest is history.

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

RN: I find inspiration in literally anything! I don’t have one set style that I focus on. I like to dabble in a little bit of everything—from pattern work to historical interpretations (what would Marie Antoinette wear on her nails?) to art recreation.

—Loren Lee