Creativity across continents

From Croatia to Canada: nail artist, judge & industry expert, Zrinka Vuksan, shares her inspiring career story

Nails for actress, Momona Tamada (@momonatamada). Photographer: Noah Asanias (@noahasanias)

Interviewer: Irvin Rivera (@graphicsmetropolis) for @abookof. Stylist: Layla Gill-Desjardins (@layladesjardins). Dress by Kika Vargas, shoes by Celine and jewellery by Dorothy Louie. Make-up artist: Katrina Wrobel (@theartistrycollective) using MAC Cosmetics.

Hair: Patrick Uy (@patrickuystylist) using Oribe.

Nails: Zrinka Vuksan (@zrinkathemanicurist) using Zer.0 by Zrinka (@zer.0_professionalnailsystem).

Assistant: Aileen Sze (@aileenmaesze) 2nd assistant: Sebastian Prange (@prange.sebastian) Wardrobe assistant: Emma (@em_ah_)

Retouching: LUCI (@getluci)

In the heart of Vancouver’s trendy Yaletown district, nestled amidst chic boutiques and cafes, lies Zer.0 European Nail Academy, a sanctuary for nail artistry that has gained international acclaim. The mastermind behind this unique studio is Zrinka Vuksan, a Croatian-born,Canada-based nail pro who has transformed her passion for nails into a global phenomenon.

Known for her meticulous attention to detail, Zrinka has not only made a name for herself in Canada’s beauty scene, but has become a revered judge for the prestigious Nailympia competition organisation, having judged online and in three of its locations. Her career is a testament to hard work, creativity and an unyielding belief in following one’s dreams.

Humble beginnings

Zrinka’s nail styling journey started in the picturesque town of Šibenik, Croatia. As a young woman, Zrinka knew she was destined for something creative, but it wasn’t until 2010 that she found her true calling. “I began experimenting with nails, not knowing where this would take me,” she recalls. Zrinka was encouraged by her husband, who recognised her potential, with nails a craft that was almost unheard of in her small hometown. “There wasn’t anyone doing what I had in mind,” she says. This gap in the market, combined with her natural artistic flair, led Zrinka to dive feet first into the world of nail art.

By June 2011, Zrinka had opened a small studio and had one client. But word of her unique style quickly spread, and within a year she was fully booked. Her approach to nails was different from anything her clients had seen before; she views nails as an extension of personal style, where structure, design and individuality matter more than just colour or length.

From Croatia to Canada

Zrinka’s burgeoning reputation in Croatia soon opened up opportunities, leading to her relocation to Vancouver, Canada. The move wasn’t just a leap of faith, but a significant turning point in her career. With her European background and innovative techniques, Zrinka quickly made a name for herself in the Canadian beauty industry. Her studio, Zer.0, became known for its European-structured classes, which focus on a blend of maths, architecture and classic design principles.

But Zrinka’s influence didn’t stop at her studio doors. She began collaborating with top Vancouver photographers, working on high fashion editorials and contributing to the fashion, film and music industries. Her intricate designs and ability to tailor nails to fit her clients’ fingers, hands and styles set her apart as a true artist.

“The nail industry is not just about creating beautiful designs. It’s about building a community, supporting others and continuously striving for excellence.”

“When it comes to nail colours, black is my forever favourite. It’s timeless, versatile and always makes a statement.”

Crafting a nail legacy

Zrinka’s dedication to her craft led to her being invited to judge for Nailympia nail competitions. “I get so excited every time I’m on a plane to a Nailympia location,” she enthuses. For Zrinka, judging is more than just evaluating others’ work; it’s a chance to give back to the industry that has given her so much. “There’s so much pride in knowing that I once dreamed of this,” she says. “Now I’m a member of the judging team, I get to sit behind a booth and do what I love most.”

Zrinka’s approach to judging is as meticulous as her nail designs. She believes that an assessor not only needs to possess perfect technical skills, but have an impeccable character and great communication abilities. “We are under huge pressure because we’re judged too – by competitors,” she explains, noting the intense scrutiny judges face from the industry at large.

A typical day in the life of Zrinka begins at 7am. She shares: “I wake up, get set for work and get my daughter ready for school. At 9am, I head to my studio and prepare my tools, review the day’s schedule and set up for my first client. My work day starts at 10am, during which I typically see three to four clients. I never take on more than four, because I find that my concentration begins to wane. I am incredibly fortunate to have clients who trust me enough to let me create freely, so I am given a clear canvas on which to express my creativity. Although, I must confess that artistic French is my favourite design to recreate: specifically a reverse art or mosaic French manicure on medium-length almond nails. My go-to colour palette for this look includes black, neon green, turquoise and white with texture. It’s a design I could happily wear for the rest of my life. When it comes to nail colours, black is my forever favourite. It’s timeless, versatile and always makes a statement.”

Moving through her daily rituals, Zrinka switches gears after tending to clients to film content for her product line. “I take a break to make dinner for my daughter, then return to work for another three hours to create videos and prepare content for the coming days,” she reveals. “At 8pm, I spend some quality time with my family. However, the work doesn’t stop there, as I dedicate two hours – starting at 10pm – to answer emails, manage my website and handle other aspects of my business. I go to bed at midnight, ready to repeat my tasks the following day. Being an entrepreneur is anything but easy, but I wouldn’t trade it for the world!”

“Zrinka’s passion for the industry is palpable, and she’s determined to keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in nail art.”

The birth of Zer.0: a brand with purpose

In September 2023, Zrinka launched Zer.0 by Zrinka. The brand, much like Zrinka herself, is grounded in the idea of starting from scratch, shedding ego and building something new.

“I moved to Canada and started from zero,” she says, explaining the inspiration behind the brand’s name. The products, which are HEMA-free and designed for both beginner and master techs, reflect Zrinka’s commitment to quality and desire to offer premium products to fellow professionals.

Zrinka’s future goals are as ambitious as they are inspiring. She aims to expand Zer.0 into the European market, focus more on content creation and continue working on high-profile editorial and fashion projects. Her passion for the industry is palpable, and she’s determined to keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in nail art.

“For Zrinka, judging is more than just evaluating others’ work; it’s a chance to give back to the industry that has given her so much.”

Dreams do come true

Zrinka’s journey from a small Croatian town to the global stage is a powerful reminder that dreams can come true with hard work, humility and a will to embrace change. She encourages aspiring nail artists to dream big and remain open to learning from their mistakes. “I had dreams and visions, and all the people I’ve met on my journey have been there for a reason,” she reflects. “Dream big, because anything is possible when you’re willing to acknowledge your mistakes.

“The person who truly changed my life and recognised my skills and personality is Alex Fox, who I lovingly call ‘Foxova’. Her decision to approach me during Nailympia Canada 2019, where I was a spectator, and give me a chance to speak my mind, was a turning point in my career. I hope others find their Foxova equivalent: someone who changes their life path in the most unexpected and meaningful way.

Photos shown published in First magazine (@first.magazine).

Model: Brenna Morsonn (@brennamorsonn) of @vanmodelagency Photography: Nausher Banaji (@nausher_nash) & Anjali Limankekar (@anjalimankekar)

Nails: Zrinka Vuksan (@zrinkathemanicurist) Styling: Janet Ross (@janetadrienne)

Make-up: Negar Khoshgoo (@negarkhoshgoo) Hair: Linda Refosco (@hairbylinda_refosco) – LURE Salon (@lurevancouver)

Jewellery: Kayzie Couture (@kayziecouture) & Melissa Caron (@melissacaronjeweller)

“The nail industry is not just about creating beautiful designs,” emphasises Zrinka. “It’s about building a community, supporting others and continuously striving for excellence.”

Whether working on an Oscar-winning film, judging at Nailympia or developing her next product, Zrinka Vuksan is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with in the world of nail art. And, as she continues to grow her brand and influence, one thing is certain: her nail journey is far from over.

www.zrinkabnailacademia.com www.zerobyzrinka.com

/planb.nokti

@zrinkathemanicurist & @zerobyzrinkab