Factory Creatives: Zahra Nadeem

Factory Creatives is a new series where we head out into the city to find out more about the local creatives at the heart of our programme. For our second interview, we talked to nail artist Zahra Nadeem at Heena Fabrics – her family’s fabric shop in Rochdale.

Can you introduce yourself?

I’m Zahra Nadeem, a nail artist and founder of ZHR Nails, based in Greater Manchester. My work focuses on intricate hand-painted nail art and press-on designs inspired by South Asian culture, heritage and craftsmanship. What began as a creative outlet has grown into storytelling. Through ZHR Nails and my collections, I explore how beauty can hold meaning, memory and identity, transforming textiles, architecture and personal history into wearable art.

What or who inspires you to do the work that you do?

I’m inspired by craftsmanship passed down through centuries – through family traditions and ancestral art. I’m motivated by the idea of honouring different cultures through modern beauty, and by creating work that feels deeply personal yet collectively nostalgic.

Why did you choose the location in your photograph?

The photograph was taken at Heena Fabrics, my family’s fabric shop in Greater Manchester. I spent much of my childhood there, surrounded by rolls of fabric, embroidery and colour. Choosing this location felt like watering my roots, acknowledging where my creativity truly began. That environment shaped me long before I realised it. Everything I do now – in colour, detail and texture – can be traced back to this space.

What’s your favourite thing about Manchester’s arts and culture scene?

Manchester feels open and supportive of all forms of creativity. There’s space here to experiment, take risks and build something without having to fit into one mould. I love how many cultures and voices are represented, and how strongly the city supports independent artists. There’s a real sense of community and people uplift each other, which makes the creative scene feel honest and welcoming.

What would you say to someone interested in coming to a Glam Station or one of your events?

I’ll be painting unique nail art for anyone who wants it – small, personal designs that make a statement. It’s a chance for us to play with colour, pattern and creativity, so you leave with a tiny piece of art you can carry with you.