“'Man'icure Memory" by Will Mackintosh (he/him/any)

I started painting my nails a few months before I first came out as gay, and although I don’t think physical appearances should necessarily indicate anything about one’s sexual orientation or gender identity, nail polish helped me to become more comfortable with my self-expression and self-acceptance. Nail art brings me joy and reminds me of good and important memories because I like to match my nails with seasons and special events like school milestones, holidays, and pride months!