Meet Julieta Ramos

We had the good fortune of connecting with Julieta Ramos and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Julieta, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking.
I view risk as an integral part of my growth journey, especially in the creative and entrepreneurial spaces I’ve worked in. Every major step I’ve taken in my life has involved a level of uncertainty, but it’s precisely in that uncertainty that I’ve found opportunities for personal and professional expansion. One of the biggest risks I took was starting my own business, Rock Your Nails, in Buenos Aires in 2017. It wasn’t just about launching a nail art business—it was about creating a space where creativity could thrive, where I could truly express my vision, and where I could build something that felt authentic and true to who I am as an artist. That decision involved stepping away from the security of a traditional job and trusting that my passion and skills would carry me forward.

Since then, I’ve taken several other risks that have pushed me out of my comfort zone and expanded my horizons. Moving to Boston in 2022 to study English and business was another big leap. It took me away from the familiar and into a new world of knowledge, which then led me to Miami. Each new city—Buenos Aires, Boston, and now Miami—has offered its own challenges and opportunities. In Miami, I’m still embracing risk by stepping into new spaces, like the competitive scene at Nailympia and the Nail Art Exhibition at Art Basel, which gives me the chance to showcase my skills on a global platform. I’m also in the process of building a new chapter, forging connections and learning from the vibrant local community. Risk, for me, is about evolution—it’s about taking those chances that can lead to the next level, no matter how intimidating they may feel at the time. Each step I take is an opportunity to grow, learn, and contribute to something bigger than myself.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My career as a nail artist is a continuous journey of growth and discovery. When I started 15 years ago, I was focused on mastering the technical aspects of nail design—learning the craft and honing my skills. But over time, my work has evolved beyond technique. Now, I find myself diving deeper into the artistic side of it, exploring how I can express my creativity and emotions through nails. The materials I choose, the techniques I develop, and the overall aesthetic of my designs all reflect my personal journey of self-expression. It’s been a process of understanding what excites me, what challenges me, and what feels authentic to my vision as an artist.

Starting Rock Your Nails in 2015 with my friend was a pivotal moment in my career. What began as a humble venture in Buenos Aires has grown into a space where we cannot only create but also share our passion for nail art with others. Over the years, we’ve been fortunate enough to open three nail salons in Buenos Aires, each with its own unique vibe. We also opened a nail school to teach aspiring artists, which allowed us to pass on everything we had learned over the years. These milestones have given us the opportunity to create a thriving community of nail lovers and artists, many of whom have gone on to have successful careers themselves.

One of the most defining moments in my career was when I competed in Nailympia, a prestigious international competition, where I managed to win four medals: two gold and two silver. Competing alone was a risk, but it paid off, affirming my skills and connecting me with a network of talented artists worldwide. This experience was incredibly rewarding and pushed me to take more creative risks in my work. This June, I’ll be competing again at Nailympia in Orlando, continuing to challenge myself and push the boundaries of my craft.

But the journey doesn’t stop there. I’m still learning, still evolving, and still discovering new ways to challenge myself as an artist. During my time in the U.S., I took a break from professional commitments to focus solely on personal growth and creating art. This time was dedicated to exploring new dimensions of creativity and gaining fresh perspectives that have deeply influenced my work. My art is always changing, and I love that about it. It’s not just about creating beautiful nails—it’s about creating meaningful experiences for the people I connect with. Every design is an opportunity to tell a story, and I’m grateful for the chance to share that story with everybody.

Another highlight of my career has been exhibiting at the Nail Art Exhibition during Art Basel in Miami, an opportunity that marked my first experience showcasing live nail art. Since then, we’ve exhibited at the Nail and Lashes Expo in Fort Lauderdale, and now, we’re exhibiting for the third time at the WNBA event. These experiences have allowed me to share my art with diverse audiences, connect with fellow creatives, and continuously evolve as an artist.

This version incorporates all the new details about your upcoming Nailympia competition, the three exhibitions, and the continuous evolution of your work. Let me know if there’s anything else you’d like to adjust!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If a friend were visiting Miami, I’d want to share with them the parts of the city that resonate most with me. First, we’d head to the beach—because for me, Miami’s coastal beauty is one of the main reasons I moved here. The ocean’s energy is inspiring, and I find peace and creativity in its waves. We’d take a walk along the shore, enjoying the calm atmosphere. Afterward, I’d take them to Planta, my favorite vegan restaurant. I’ve been following a vegan diet since 2015, so Planta’s innovative dishes are a perfect fit. The ambiance is also amazing, and I love sharing that experience with others.

For the evening, we’d go to Bayside, to experience the city’s lively energy—there’s always something happening, and it’s a great place to people-watch. Then, we’d head over to Wynwood to take in the street art and murals. Miami’s art scene is something I’m passionate about, especially as an artist myself. I’d also make sure we hit a cozy spot for some wine, where we could relax and chat about life. We’d also definitely check out some live music, and if my talented musician friend Esperanza has a show, we’d be there to support her. And of course, the Nail Art Exhibition would be on the list—an event that perfectly combines creativity and craftsmanship. We’d end the night by getting dressed up and enjoying a night out, hitting some of the coolest spots in Miami. It would be an unforgettable day of exploration, art, and celebration.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to give a special shoutout to the Nail Art Exhibition at Art Basel and the curator, Kleopatra. It’s not every day that artists have the opportunity to showcase their work in such a prestigious environment, and I’m grateful to have been a part of this incredible event. Kleopatra’s vision and dedication to curating this space for nail art is truly inspiring, and I believe it’s an essential contribution to the growing recognition of nail artistry as a legitimate form of creative expression. It was an honor to exhibit my work there, and I’m excited to see how the nail art community continues to evolve and gain more exposure in the future.

Instagram: @julienailsok