Photographer: @joshuawoods
The Passion Project
How Pika Transformed His Love for Nail Art into a Successful Business
By Dylan AtilanoAug. 12 2024, Published 2:34 p.m. ET
Known as TheGuyThatDoesNails on Instagram, Pika is a Harlem-based creative who turned his love for nail art into a successful business. Pika’s story showcases that you can overcome any hurdle life throws at you by staying dedicated to your craft, being true to yourself, and remaining kind no matter what.
His path into nail art began at a point of uncertainty in his life. After being laid off from a marketing job in April of 2022, Pika felt lost in his career path. One night at a bar, two of his friends encouraged him to pursue his dream of nail art. The next day, he found a nail program and started classes the following week. Despite having minimal experience in the arts, he was determined to succeed and practiced relentlessly. Five months later, Pika graduated from the class, ready to put his skills to use.
In November of 2022, Pika ran out of unemployment benefits and faced a choice: either get a job or become so good at nail art that he could start his own business within a few months. At this point in his life, Pika was broke and tired of working for others. Determined to hustle, he decided to launch his nail art business, TheGuyThatDoesNails, and become his own boss. Pika began working with clients out of his house, spending countless hours practicing his craft.
Some of Pika’s first clients were those closest to him, including his mother. After moving out, he didn’t see her often, but that changed as Pika regularly visited her to do her nails. Looking back, Pika explains how “nails brought us together” and became a way for the two to spend quality time together.
Four months into Pika’s new career, tragedy struck when his mother suddenly passed away in March of 2023. Pika was driven to make a name for himself and was hungry to succeed. However, losing his mother “Was the most tragic moment of my life; I wasn’t ready for it.” Despite being filled with grief, Pika held on to his mother’s words of encouragement and ultimately pushed past this difficult time to continue pursuing his dream.
Instagram became a major factor in growing Pika’s business. He began sharing his journey through nail school, showcasing both the highs and the lows of his experience. “I wanted to show the good, the bad, and the ugly,” he explains. He wasn't afraid to post about his mistakes and knew he wasn't perfect. While most profiles on social media try to display an image of perfection, Pika’s approach grounded himself and presented authenticity. Once he started his nail business, Pika continued to see steady growth. That all changed after posting his nail work for Teyana Taylor. This not only boomed Pika’s business but also brought a whole new following.
Pika’s unique nail art designs draw inspiration from both his hometown and the fashion trends of his youth. Growing up in Harlem instilled a sense of swagger in him from a young age. It was here that he saw long nails and became drawn to them. Drawing inspiration from the fashion trends of the ‘90s and Y2K, Pika puts his own twist on them by blending those trends with modern looks. Textures also play a major role in Pika’s design choices, as he strives to build structure on the nails he works with. To him, the nails become a canvas.
Pika lives by the philosophy of “being kind to myself and giving grace to others.” One of the most difficult lessons he had to learn was not to be so harsh with his self-critiques. By taking the time to step away from the work, he’d have a clearer sense of how to solve design issues and arrive at a solution.
Pika’s advice to his younger self resonates with his own philosophy: “Be kind to yourself because it all comes together in the end.” Early in his career path, Pika felt lost but found his true calling with nail art. He believes in the importance of listening to the signs the universe gives and keeping faith not only in himself but also in his craft.
Today, Pika’s nail art business continues to grow and attract A-list clients such as Rihanna, Lil Yachty, and brands like Lanvin. His work is also showcased in Vogue Hong Kong, Document Journal, and Issue Magazine. He hopes to work with Bad Bunny, citing his love for the artist’s style and unwavering confidence to be himself. Pika’s journey is a true inspiration to all who feel lost in their own path. He proves that by staying motivated and true to our authentic selves, we can accomplish anything we set our minds on.
