Shei Osei, a 33-year-old nail artist from Basildon, Essex, was overwhelmed with emotion after seeing her nail designs for Cynthia Erivo’s character Elphaba in the Wicked movie on the big screen.
Having known Erivo for 15 years, Osei collaborated closely with the actress to create nail designs that reflected Elphaba’s personal journey.
She also did Erivo’s nails for the green carpet premiere when London’s Southbank transformed into the Emerald City.
Osei, who began learning nail artistry at 14 and turned professional at 18, crafted over 35 sets of press-on nails for the film, each taking up to 90 minutes to complete.
Her designs evolved with Elphaba’s character arc, starting with subtle green ombré nails symbolizing shyness and growing into bolder, more daring designs reflecting self-acceptance and confidence.
Having previously worked with Erivo on Luther: The Fallen Sun, Osei was thrilled to see her artistic vision come to life on screen.
“I cried,” she admitted.
“I’m very hard on myself… I was checking if I shaped them properly and if the ombré was good.”
Since the film’s release, Osei has gained global recognition and received an outpouring of support.
Reflecting on her journey, she hopes her story inspires other nail artists and beauty professionals.
“These things don’t come overnight, but if you keep pushing, you’ll get there in the end,” she said.
Also read: Irish-Language Film Kneecap Wins Big At British Independent Film Awards