The Tribune

Reva Dean, pictured, is quickly becoming a popular household name in our community. This young lady makes magic wherever she goes, using her creative charm and ability to maximum effect.

This lady, who wears many hats as a play writer, author, relationship coach and motivational speaker, has a passion and love for the arts that is unmatched. Creativity is not just her world; it is her signature in every area of life.

Nail artistry forms the biggest part of her interest, as she reveals all in this interview here.

Q: When did you get started in the career of nail artistry, and what attracted you to it?

A: I got started beautifying nails in 2008, when I attended RNS Nail Institute. My attraction to this craft was the diverse freedom for creativity, making nails and hands beautiful. Also, I desired to become an entrepreneur.

Q: What is a typical day for you like in this field?

A: A typical day for me in this business is actually like any other day. It has its ups and downs but I love it.

Q: What form of peace, if any, does the art world offer you?

A: The form of peace I gain while making decisions with colours is a peace of knowing that I have made someone's day brighter, and hopefully helped them to gain a higher level of confidence through a rendered service of fabulous nails.

Q: Do you prefer freelancing or working for a business?

A: Actually both. Freelancing affords me the opportunity of communicating with diverse clients on a "one on one" private setting that is free from the annoyance of a long wait. Freelancing offers a convenient opportunity to walk-in clients.

Q: How would you describe your work?

A: I describe my work as one of deep passion, freedom of creativity and a source of deliverance.

Q: What are your most rewarding and unfulfilling moments when dealing with customers?

A: My most rewarding moment gained from the career field is being able to meet people, and offering advice to any issues they are experiencing.

Also, I try my level best to provide the best service by creating the most beautiful designs to make them happy. Overall, my clients and I bond through conversations of life experiences each time.

Q: Where do you look for creativity?"

A: I search inside myself for creativity. And sometimes just observing the type of personality a client has helps me to develop the ideal design. So, being attentive to the likes and dislikes of my customer helps me to better connect to the preferences and creating the ideal design.

Q: How important is originality?

A: Originality is extremely important. Every artist desires originality and wishes their master design piece to always "stand out". Definitely, the artist is happy to stand out as well. For example: People should recognise a popular work and confidently ask: Did Reva Dean do your nails? I do believe that originality is a signature craft that needs much attention and detailed work to become unique.

Q: Do you think artists are born or created?

A: I honestly believe that artists are born. Actually, my passion is one of making things beautiful. But some people might shy away from the task of becoming a nail technician and simply prefer the comfort of relaxation and being catered to while having their nails decorated.

Q: Which do you feel is more important? Good work with bad attitude, or bad attitude and good work?

A: I feel good work and good attitude should always work together. Not because you are good at what you do means you should be disrespectful to others. Customers are our first priority, and it is because of them we are successful. So, thank you to my clients. I love you.

Q: Despite increased technology do you feel that this industry is growing or declining?

A: This industry is developing every day, and there will always be 10 fingers and 10 toes being brought into this world. When these nails grow up they will always want to glam up. So we could never have enough nails technicians to beautify dull-looking nails.

Q: How do your clients view your work?

A: My clients love my work. The service and craft of beautifying nails helped me when I was at my lowest point in life. The world of designs and beautifying nails was all I had to ease the pain, and I am very grateful to my clients and thankful for this opportunity.

Q: What are the key things you do to stay on top of your game?

A: Some of the key things I do to stay on top of my game are I make it a point to learn new techniques and skills to stay in the game.

Q: Any inside secrets about this business you would like to share?

A: Respect each other. Keep upgrading and rising as much as you can to be better at everything you are passionate about.

Q: What would you say is the magic potion for success in this business?

A: As a nail technician, consistency and being focused is key. I have discovered that the instability of moving from one salon to the other can result in the decline of a technician's clientele. I have also learnt that success requires stability, focus and determination as well.

Q: What would you tell young people who are contemplating a profession in this industry?

A: My advice to any young person with a creative instinct or desiring a career in nail artistry is: The sky is not the limit, and there are no limits. Soar as high as you can, stay focused and follow your dreams and, if using your creativity to become a nail technician, then go for it. No apologies required.

Until we meet again, fill your life with memories as opposed to regrets. Enjoy life and stay on top of your game.

NB: The columnist welcomes feedback at deedee21bastian@gmail.com

ABOUT THE COLUMNIST: Deidre Marie Bastian is a professionally trained Graphic Designer/Marketing Coordinator with qualifications of M.Sc., B.Sc., A.Sc. She has trained at institutions such as: Miami Lakes Technical Centre, Success Training College, College of the Bahamas, Nova South Eastern University, Learning Tree International, Langevine International and Synergy Bahamas.