As a “girly girl” woman in the design field, I receive many remarks about how people would not have guessed that I work in a workshop setting in which I enjoy getting my hands dirty. For me, this shows that people are still holding onto the idea that the “maker” or “creator” world is solely reserved for males. I always have my nails done with either a gel polish or acrylic sculpture. This is for purely practical reasons, as it prevents my nails and nail bed from being damaged by chemicals or machinery (almost like a protective barrier). Many people ask “how can you produce any great products with those pretty nails?” Now, my “pretty nails” have become part of my personal designer’s narrative and they are my protest statement!
Student - Taught Postgraduate
