Vivian Xue: From Software Engineer to Nail Artist

Vivian Xue, a first generation Chinese immigrant, initially pursued a career as a software engineer but eventually discovered her true passion as a nail artist. Through her TikTok platform, she has gained a significant following by sharing her creative nail art and providing glimpses into the process of making reusable press-ons for her clients.

Being part of the API community holds great significance for Vivian. Her cultural background has always played a major role in her love for art. Growing up, she faced challenges and felt like she didn't belong in the United States due to bullying related to her accent, her home, and her clothing. However, thanks to the inspiring API role models she found on social media, Vivian was able to overcome these obstacles and embrace her own identity.

The TikTok community has been a tremendous source of inspiration for Vivian. The overwhelming support and appreciation she receives for her art motivate her to constantly improve and stay true to herself. Through TikTok, she has connected with like-minded individuals who share her passion and enthusiasm for the same things.

Vivian's dream opportunity would be to have her own show on Disney Plus, as most of her nail designs are inspired by Disney movies. This platform would allow her to showcase her creativity and bring her unique art to a wider audience.

When it comes to creating nail designs, Vivian draws inspiration from various sources. Sometimes, she is inspired by things she has seen or places she has visited. For example, a visit to a Turkish Delight store sparked her interest in replicating its decor on nails. Similarly, a peculiar-looking fish she saw at an aquarium inspired her to incorporate it into a nail design. Vivian also values the input of her clients, who often provide brochures or PowerPoint presentations to convey their personality and preferences. This collaboration allows her to create authentic designs that truly reflect her clients' individuality. Developing these ideas and executing them into nail sets requires careful thought and time, as it is a more intricate process than it may seem.

Among the many nail designs Vivian has created, her favorite was a set based on Whitney Houston and Brandy in Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella. This movie held a special place in her heart since childhood, and being able to bring her vision to life through this nail design was a dream come true. Another memorable set for Vivian was inspired by the movie Rush Hour, showcasing her love for classic films. Drawing Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker on nails was a fun and enjoyable experience for her, as she holds a deep appreciation for these actors and knows every line from the movie.