Shea Osei creates over 35 nail sets for Cynthia Erivo in Wicked

In 2022, Shea Osei, a talented nail artist from Basildon, was commissioned to create nails for Cynthia Erivo, who played Elphaba in the movie adaptation of Wicked. Shea crafted over 35 sets of press-on nails, each set taking up to 90 minutes to ensure uniform style, color, shape, and design. The intricate designs included a subtle green ombré that reflected Elphaba's character development throughout the story. As the film progresses, Elphaba becomes more confident, and her nails symbolize this transformation. When Cynthia wore these nails at the film premiere's green carpet event at London's Southbank, Shea felt immense pride and emotional joy as she witnessed her work on the big screen, a moment that brought her to tears. The importance of nail design in Wicked cannot be understated, as Shea Osei emphasized how these visual elements enhance character storytelling within the film. Cynthia Erivo's nails subtly told Elphaba's journey, capturing moments when she interacts with critical props, like her broom and hat. Shea noted, 'We always knew we wanted the nails to be a part of the film.' The incredible attention to detail attracted significant love and recognition for Shea, showcasing the growing appreciation for nail artistry in the entertainment industry. Shea's work not only highlights the efforts of nail artists but illustrates how crucial such details are in visual storytelling. The film's success can also be attributed to its focus on aesthetics and character development, where even accessories like nails embody the characters' journeys. Shea Osei's experience with Cynthia Erivo has opened doors for her and has set a precedent for nail artistry in major film productions, suggesting a shift in how such artistry is perceived by audiences. With Shea Osei receiving praise for her designs, her work has become a talking point for fans and critics alike, inspiring future collaborative efforts between nail artists and filmmakers as they explore ways to use nail art to enhance storytelling. This trend is likely to continue evolving, as more artists seek to integrate their skills into visual media, signaling a renaissance for nail art in cinema. Shea represented not only her talent but the potential for other artists to make significant impacts through their crafts in the film industry.