Squadron Goals: The Top 3 and the Bottom 3
Challenge 1 sponsored by Gelish asked our Top 12 to create destination-themed nail art using any mediums they wanted. They also had to upload a video diary about their inspiration and design process. This week’s guest judge was Danny Haile of Gelish.
In alphabetical order, the Top 3 are:
Jonny Diep Pham: Precise hand-painting and bright beautiful coloring took these nails to new heights. The judges adored the cohesiveness of your design. Your narrative was equally as beautiful and you were given high marks for your video as well. There’s no question you have an eye for fine detailing and sculpting. We can’t wait to see more from you!
Liina Leino: Your video was a bit long, but all the judges agree that it was truly out of this world! You mixed artistry and entertainment when it came to both your video and your nails — and the judges loved watching both. Your light-up nails and use of pigments dazzled the judges. And of course, who can’t resist a cute dog in a space suit?
Tracy Vinson: Very smart choices were made in your video. The judges loved the tour you gave us! You have a calm command of many different techniques. Using unconventional items in your art was also a genius choice. Your lettering was spot-on and refined. The judges agree that your antiquing detail is fabulous and perfect for fall. Well done!
The following techs can breathe again. They are in the middle of this week’s pack and are safe. Congratulations to:
Amber Dunson: Your nail art was fun and colorful. The judges liked that you mixed things up by choosing a particular destination and making it come to life. The smuggled sand was an especially brilliant touch. A bit more variety in the elements and sharper design would be appreciated.
Cate Widemire: Thank you for choosing our competition over traveling to Cairo! The way you weaved your story and demo together was masterful. Your acrylic building was also impressive. A group favorite was the signpost. We loved that you used acrylic to bring all the competitors together!
Dana Cecil: History meets geography in a way only you can make fun, Dana. Your on-camera personality is always a joy to watch! The chrome plane was especially on-trend. Watch your own nails in your video as well as the volume of the background music.
Lisa Bennett: You showed us a wide range of regions, giving us a lot to look at. Because of all that’s going on, it took the judges a while to figure out some of the designs. A cohesive element could have been added to carry the design full-circle. The judges applaud your color blending and extensive research. We just want you to bring your video to the next level for even more Bennett brilliance!
Liza Waitzman: Your entry made the judges hungry for sushi! The intersection nail and cherry blossom were huge hits as well. Better lighting in some parts of your video could make it even stronger. Overall, the judges loved watching your thought process.
Tracey Lee: We love that you made this video so warm and personal. The interspersion of your own travel photos was a lovely touch that allowed us to get to know you. Your detail work is sophisticated and the color choices were on-point. It was clever to feature several modes of transport on your finished piece. Kudos for the hand pose in your hero shot as well! The judges commend you on your sportsmanship at the end of the video. Bravo!
Unfortunately, there always has to be a bottom group. The bottom 3, in alphabetical order, are:
Deanna White: The judges loved your “sweetheart” spin on the theme. The Polaroids and wire work were well-received. However, we felt more advanced techniques could have been used in this set. Your video explained a lot, but without your video this set may not have made as much sense.
Katey Laurenson: Your textured map nails gave the judges the warm fuzzies. We were left wanting to see more color and refined design though.
Trisha Johnson: The judges loved your leather trim and how the goggles “hang” on the finger. When it comes to your video, watch the angling of the camera.
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