Miz Wang is an accomplished nail artist and Blanche Macdonald Centre’s dynamic Nail Instructor. Her career combines creativity, nail technician program instruction, and high-profile collaborations. Miz’s journey into nail art began with a passion for colours and design, ultimately leading her to a successful career that spans international trends, fashion weeks, and editorial shoots. As a nail technician program educator, Miz inspires her students with a blend of technical mastery, artistic innovation, and industry insight. In this interview, she shares her inspirations, teaching philosophy, and advice for aspiring nail artists looking to make their mark in this vibrant field.
Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in nail art?
Actually, I’ve always been interested in colours and creativity since I was young. In high school, I took a nail art class, and the teacher really inspired me. I love nail art because it allows me to express my ideas in such a small space, and you can create something new every few weeks. When I moved to Canada, I discovered the nail art styles here were completely different from what I knew, and that reignited my passion. Eventually, I decided to focus on nail art because it’s something I truly love.
Q: What made you choose to become a nail technician program educator at Blanche Macdonald Centre?
Teaching has always been my passion. I used to be a music coach and have taught nail art courses before, so returning to teaching felt like a natural choice for me. I love sharing my experiences with students and helping them discover their love for nail art—it’s such a rewarding feeling.
Q: What do you think makes the Nail Technician Program at Blanche Macdonald unique compared to other training programs?
The program here doesn’t just teach techniques—it also covers creativity, client service, and practical applications in the industry. I think this well-rounded approach helps students adapt to various work environments, which makes it truly unique.
Q: As a professional nail artist who works on high-profile projects like fashion weeks and magazine shoots, how do you balance creativity with the practical aspects of teaching?
For me, creativity is about having the freedom to explore, but teaching focuses more on practicality and sharing experiences. I bring my creativity into the classroom by using real-life examples to help students understand how to balance artistry with practicality. This way, they can enjoy creating while mastering essential skills.
Q: How do you incorporate current fashion trends into your nail art, and why do you think it’s important for students to stay in tune with these trends?
Fashion trends help us understand market demands, especially when working with clients. I encourage students to stay informed about trends but also to learn how to guide their clients instead of just following their preferences. This approach shows true professionalism.
Q: What advice would you give to Nail Technician Program students who are just starting their journey in nail art, especially those looking to work in salons or on fashion projects?
Keeping a learning mindset is crucial because the nail art industry changes so quickly. Techniques and communication are the basics, but staying curious about new styles and techniques will keep you motivated and growing.
Q: In your opinion, what skills or qualities make a nail artist truly stand out in today’s competitive industry?
Professional skills, great communication, and a constant drive for innovation are key. Understanding your clients’ needs and delivering designs that exceed their expectations will make you stand out.
Q: How do you approach personalizing nail designs to reflect an individual’s style, and what tips can you share with students looking to develop their own unique signature?
Experimenting with different materials and styles is the key to discovering what you truly love. Observing other art forms, such as fashion or painting, can also help you find inspiration. I encourage students not to be afraid of trying new things—through experimentation, you’ll gradually find your unique style.
Q: What are some of the most memorable or impactful nail projects you’ve worked on, and what did those experiences teach you?
One of the most memorable experiences was working with Vancouver Fashion Week designers Alex and Bahar this October. I created 30 artistic nail designs and produced 70 sets for Alex’s design team. This experience taught me how to make quick decisions under pressure and how to be an efficient team leader.
Q: How do you keep your inspiration fresh and stay motivated to push the boundaries of nail art?
Inspiration comes from everyday life—travel, art, or even cooking. I enjoy bringing creativity into daily activities, like pairing ingredients with different colors to create edible art. I also constantly experiment with new products and techniques, which keeps me motivated to innovate.
Q: What trends or techniques in nail art are you most excited about right now, and how do you incorporate them into your teaching at Blanche Macdonald?
I’m especially excited about acrylic extensions and 3D creations because they turn nails into miniature works of art. In class, I guide students to analyze different artistic styles, helping them understand how to combine techniques with creativity and apply it to their own designs.
Q: Can you share a bit about how you tailor your teaching to benefit students with different skill levels, from beginners to experienced nail enthusiasts looking to refine their techniques?
For beginners, I focus on basic techniques to help them build a strong foundation. For more experienced students, I encourage them to challenge themselves and try more innovative designs. I believe patience and passion are key in teaching—when the teacher loves their work, students will feel inspired too.
Q: What do you hope students take away from your classes at Blanche Macdonald that will help them succeed in their careers?
I hope students not only learn techniques but also understand what it takes to be a professional nail artist. They need to master communication skills with clients, build their personal brand, and have a genuine passion for this work—these are the foundations of success.
Q: You offer your own courses, too. Tell us a bit about your business!
I offer one-on-one advanced courses to help students solidify their basics and explore more innovative techniques. I also provide nail design rental and customization services, especially for brand events or fashion shows. These designs are tailored to make every project stand out.
I have always believed that nail art is more than just an expression of beauty. Even though nails are small, they can be the highlight of an entire look. In the future, I hope to collaborate with more fashion industries to elevate nail art as an integral part of overall styling, showcasing its true value.
