Nail art is undergoing a cultural renaissance, shedding its reputation as a mere beauty service and being recognized as a form of contemporary art.

Recent collaborations between renowned nail artists and major fashion brands during New York Fashion Week, as well as installations in galleries, have cemented this new status.

In a landmark moment, New York's New Museum included a nail art unit in its recent group exhibition, "Micro Manifestos," featuring the work of ten nail artists exploring themes of identity.

"This is painting, sculpture, and design on the smallest possible canvas—the human body," says curator Elizabeth W. "It is a powerful and personal medium deserving of a place in the contemporary art conversation."

This recognition is empowering a new generation of nail artists, granting them creative credibility and elevating the entire industry's profile.