Behind the CURTAIN

Achieving unforgettable red carpet glamour is hard work indeed. This month, we speak to celebrity makeup, hair and nail artists - Sir John, Nikki Nelms and Park EunKyung - about the industry 

- MELISSA MAE

NIKKI NELMS

If you follow entertainment keenly, you've probably seen one of Nikki Nelms' works on stars like Janelle Monae, Yara Shahidi, Solange Knowles and Zoe Kravitz for red carpet events, music videos or movies. And considering the sculptural hair artist's illustrious career, it's no wonder Hollywood's biggest names continue to scramble for a chance to work with her.

Earning her stripes through hard work, Nelms found herself pursuing her passion in her earlier years. "I didn't always know I wanted to pursue a career in hair," she says. "I didn't think of being a hairstylist as something to take seriously because it came so easily to me; I thought it would be more of a hobby. But along the way, I discovered people that were doing different things on a higher level; I made the connection and realised that I could pursue this full-time."

What motivates you to take on a new project? Is there anything you look for before accepting a request?

I'm always looking to do something different. I am motivated by opportunities that allow me to express my creativity. I work best when I am pushed to create something unique and innovative.

I like fresh energy, an openness and willingness to try something different or, you know, a go-with-the-flow type of project. I'm always looking for projects that inspire and drive me to be excited enough to get out of bed and get creative.

Tell us about your creative process. How do you go about crafting a look or structural hairpiece?

It sounds crazy, but my process is to not have a process. To me, it's the most effective way to get something original to not necessarily have a formal approach. I kind of let the moment tell me what to do. No two moments are the same and that allows me to create something original and exciting every time. I just live in the moment and feel the vibe.