Karma CHAMELEON

Chameleons have always fascinated me. As a child, I was mesmerised by their ability to transform; how they shift colours so effortlessly, like quiet magic that nature performs every day. That sense of wonder stayed with me and eventually inspired me to bring their magic to life through nail art.

Before creating this fantasy nail piece, I spent years drawing and painting chameleons in watercolour and exploring their forms, textures and moods. Those sketches helped me understand the grace and mystery behind their movements, and when the time came to translate that onto nails, I already knew exactly what story I wanted to tell.

This photo shoot features one of my most meaningful creations: a design that celebrates transformation, beauty and strength. I hand-sculpted the chameleon using L&P acrylic, carefully building the layers using a fine brush. It was a slow, detailed process that demanded patience, but I loved watching the creature take form: from the curve of its tail to the shimmer of its skin.

The decision to feature a Black woman in this artwork was deeply intentional. I could envisage how the chameleon’s radiant colours would come alive against her skin, and the contrast felt powerful, elegant and full of emotion. To me, it represents confidence, pride and individuality, and is a reminder that beauty has no single form or shade.

From a technical perspective, this piece challenged me in the most rewarding ways. Every element of the chameleon – each scale, shadow and subtle shift in tone – was sculpted using acrylic powder and pigments. I built depth through countless translucent layers, allowing light to interact with the sculpture, just as it does with a living chameleon’s skin.

“I hand-sculpted the chameleon using L&P acrylic, carefully building the layers using a fine brush. It was a slow, detailed process that demanded patience.”

However, beyond technique, this piece embodies my belief that nail art is a form of storytelling. It is more than decoration or trend; it’s a medium for emotion, imagination and connection. With each creation, I strive to tell a story that resonates beyond the surface and transcends cultural boundaries.

“I’ve spent over 15 years helping others see nail art as both a profession and an art form. My goal has always been to inspire creativity, confidence and excellence – not just in design, but in vision.”

As an educator and the founder of The Nail Art Academy in London and Colombo, Sri Lanka, I’ve spent over 15 years helping others see nail art as both a profession and an art form. My goal has always been to inspire creativity, confidence and excellence – not just in design, but in vision.

This photo shoot is special to me because it reminds me why I started my nail journey. My mindset was to create beauty that transforms, just like the chameleon. A heartfelt thank you to my husband, Namal Jayasooriya, for his constant encouragement and support throughout this journey, and to the incredible team who brought this vision to life.

“I strive to tell a story that resonates beyond the surface and transcends cultural boundaries.”

www.dinupa.com

/thenailartacademy

@dinupa_jayasooriya & @thenailartacademy

@nail_artacademy

@thenailartacademy3185

COVER CREDITS

Nail artist & visionary: Dinupa Jayasooriya

Photographer: Reffella Fernando

Make-up artist: Lakitha Ukwatta