As one of the biggest and most popular events on the calendar at the expo, the ManiFest Nail Awards saw contestants creating nail art that is out of this world.
The award recognises creative talents in nail artistry and the judges came from the USA, UK, New Zealand and Australia to choose the winners. From the freakish to the fantastic, from the glamorous to the gothic many intricate designs using wire and foil were the highlights.
The James Bond inspired creations added some diamond-sparkle to the nails interspersed with layers of black, white, silver and gold in keeping with the 007 theme.
Overall Open Champion Jonny Diep Pham used gel paint for the first time in this year’s event because he said it is easier to work with and colours are more easily blended than acrylics. He added that he would like to see a category that involved a team effort with each entrant contributing to the finished nail design. “The show is always a learning experience and when I walk away I know where I can improve my skills.”
Taking out the Robert Bowrey Overall Champion award was Desiree Dowling who also won the Masters Champion award. Overall Novice Champion was Kanae Shiga and the Overall Manicure Champion award went to Kazuyo Kawakami. All up over 70 awards were presented.
For more information visit http://www.internationalbeautyexpo.com.au/
By Kymberly Martin