Japanese nail artists have a huge influence on the industry. The next name you need to know from Japan is nail tech Eichi Matsunaga (@eichimatsunaga), who just moved to New York City. His Instagram following includes celebrities such as Lorde, and his client list includes Met Ball attendees Mandy Moore, Nikki Minaj, and Mindy Kaling. Matsunaga's nail art is definitely different. His specialties include negative space, hollowed out nails, and off the nail nail art (as seen in the post below). 

NAILS interviewed Matsunaga so that others in the industry could get to know him and his perspective on nail art.

NAILS: How did you get into doing nails?

Eichi Matsunaga: Just around the time that I graduated from high school. My sister was a nail artist. I realized that nails were a really interesting medium that I could use to communicate my artistic vision. 

NAILS: How would you describe your design philosophy?

EM: I'm all about innovation. I keep an open mind and I'm always on the lookout for new techniques. I love making nails that people have never seen before!

NAILS: Why did you decide to move to the U.S.?

EM: I'm ready for an adventure in a new city! I'm looking forward to meeting and collaborating with other artists and creatives. 

NAILS: What’s your advice to other nail artists who want to perfect their technique?

EM: Let your imagination guide you, and don't be afraid to make mistakes!

NAILS:What inspired your designs for this shoot?

EM: At the moment I'm personally into minimalist design. I've been experimenting with hollowing out nail tips. It's time-consuming, but I love the outcome.

NAILS: Where do you think the future of nails is headed?

EM: I think we're going to continue to see innovation in terms of utility and tools for creating nails/nail art more efficiently. For example, super-fast drying polish, acrylic formulas that are easier to control, etc. (I can't wait to try PolyGel!)

Credits:

Eichi Matsunaga for Orme Square (@ormesquare)

Photographer: Joshua Pestka for SEAMINX (@joshua.pestka @seaminxartistmgmt)

Handmodel: Noreen Eddy (@noreeneddy)

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