Spice Markets of India: An Endless Source of Inspiration
India, a country known for its rich tapestry of culture, color, and flavor, offers an unparalleled artistic inspiration in its bustling spice markets. From the vibrant hues of turmeric and paprika to the aromatic allure of cardamom and cumin, these markets stimulate every sense. These same colors and sensations have now become a muse for a dynamic and visually striking form of art—nail art.
Nail Art Design 1: Vibrant Fabrics of Jaipur
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Begin with two coats of orange gel polish as your base. This vibrant hue serves as the perfect backdrop, reminiscent of Rajasthan’s brilliantly dyed fabrics.
Step 2: Using a detail brush, sketch an hourglass shape at the base with black gel paint. Pay homage to Indian architectural details with a teal-painted crown at the tip of the hourglass. From the crown’s center, extend an elegant black leaf.
Step 3: Add pink lines within the hourglass using a liner brush. Define the leaf and its veins with white gel paint. Enhance the composition with yellow dots and further outline the hourglass’s top. Lock in the design with a protective top coat.
Nail Art Design 2: Festive Offerings of Varanasi
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Create a mysterious canvas with two thin coats of black gel polish. Paint a graceful, curved line with green at the nail’s length, then form a rustic flower with pink, orange, and yellow pigments at the tip.
Step 2: Develop the petals by painting yellow heart shapes that merge at the flower’s core. Add a symphony of tiny dots for added mystique.
Step 3: Outline these petals with pink, introducing a side floral design using the same hue. Enrich the pattern with black teardrop shapes and teal accents for a captivating edge.
Step 4: Add two elegant black lines from each teardrop shape into the pink floral motifs. Enhance with green paint for a natural touch. Decorate the teal edge with thin pink lines.
Step 5: Bring out final accents with teal, yellow, and pink paints and coat with gel for a finish that gleams.
Nail Art Design 3: Colors of Anjuna Flea Market
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Start with a single coat of teal polish, reflective of Goa’s relaxed coastal markets.
Step 2: Build a captivating gradient with a mint green layer, emphasizing saturation at the nail’s edge for a soft ombré effect.
Step 3: Craft scale-like shapes from the base to the center with black paint, setting the stage for lush design.
Step 4: Paint green leaf motifs inside the scales, trimming the free edge with black teardrop patterns.
Step 5: Fill these teardrops with orange, smoothing in a swirl of white and pink gel paint inside scales using a dotting tool. Seal the look with a gel top coat for enduring elegance.
Meet the Artist: Sabella Snyder
Based in Los Angeles, the talented Sabella Snyder (@sweetbcreations) melds traditional Indian elements with modern techniques to create breathtaking nail art. Her interpretations are inspired by the rich colors and intricate designs found in India’s cultural tapestry.
Explore more of Sabella’s works if you want to imbue your nails with the same vibrant creativity seen in markets all over India. What do you think of this spice-inspired nail art? We would love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
Images courtesy of Getty Images. First published in the July 2018 issue of NAILPRO.
