Boys in Polish: Manicured Masculinities
Founder of Boys in Polish Jess Young has been unfolding the diverse layers of masculinity through nail art. The project invites guys to take ownership of their identity; they decide what design to have painted on their nails as well as the styling for a final shoot to document their story. Throughout this time an intuitive dialogue begins to take shape, one reflecting both the individuality of the boy as well as the artwork Jess paints onto each fingernail. It is a collaborative process of expression and understanding. One which fosters positive change, uncovering the multiplicity of the male experience through creativity and a willingness to listen.
I recently caught up with Jess to talk about Boys in Polish, masculinity and well-being. (Full interview below).
Jess Young, Founder of Boys in Polish.
Do you think guys are becoming more confident in approaching conversations about masculinity and mental health? Would you say it was more difficult to engage men with these topics when Boys in Polish first launched compared to today?
I definitely think that in the three years of running this platform, we have made progress and I am seeing more guys feeling comfortable with vulnerable subjects. Perhaps that could be down to the fact that when Boys In Polish started, it was more scary to talk about these sensitive topics because it was still a new thing, but as the platform gains more popularity and exposure, guys are feeling more encouraged and safe to speak with freedom, as the topic of toxic masculinity is recognised and addressed by the media now. Of course this is an amazing thing! Just an interesting observation that we still need such concepts to filter through society and influencers for them to be okay. I do wonder if guys are beginning to wear more polish/talk about mental health and toxic masculinity for the sake of following trends and celebrities, or if it actually resonates with them on a personal level. For example, the guy who claims he is ‘spiritual’ as a modern chat up line, but doesn’t know anything about the ego.
Are there certain topics you would like to see more men speak openly about?
Something I do find interesting is the male gaze. What do men really think of women and how have their opinions been shaped by their personal experiences? It would help me to understand why everyone points the finger at a man when a relationship falls apart, why most crimes are committed by men, why there are so many men in politics. How has toxic masculinity played a part in misogyny and vice versa? I’m sure if I got to the deep root of these things, a lot of women, including myself, would be able to heal with more ease and access true forgiveness towards men who have berated us. Also, how do men really feel about themselves in their circle of friends?
Marcel McKenzie © Boys in Polish
How has Boys in Polish changed your own views on masculinity?
It has, definitely. It has taught me to unlearn a lot of old beliefs that I held on to from bad experiences. Not saying that they are entirely gone, but the more bad energy I let go of, the more good people I attract and I have really seen that come into play. I mean, I never thought I would be able to form healthy friendships with guys because of my past, but here I am! For me, I have always been an emotional and sensitive person. Until I understood that for some guys, they don’t even know what their intuition is, or have the tools to deal with emotions, that was when a lot of my views actually changed. Not to say that is an excuse for shitty behaviour, but it definitely helped me not take things so personally.
You give a lot of creative freedom to the guys when you document their stories, why do you think it’s important to facilitate that?
100%. For me, creative freedom is self expression, something that in no way should be limited by gender. It is a life necessity! There are so many healthier ways we can release what is really inside, whether that is joy, or pain. We all need a medium to transform these emotions, such as writing, music, fashion, art, dance…not violence, substance abuse or sex. Having that suppressed is like poison in your system, and that really is where the toxic behaviour roots from. The last thing I want is for the guys to feel like they have to put a mask on or suppress anything. This experience is their opportunity to be vocal, find a part of themself, and show the world their true colours.
Joe Taylor © Boys in Polish
What encourages you to keep pursuing the use of nail art to engage with guys and tell their stories?
Because that is my favourite part of my job. Connecting with people of different backgrounds and walks of life, and putting a smile on people’s faces with my craft. Knowledge is power and I have learnt so much through good conversations. I find a lot of comfort in hearing the boys talk about lessons they have learned in life and their personal struggles because a lot of it I can resonate with. Even the talk about toxic masculinity as I used to have a group of male friends who displayed a lot of this behaviour. There is definitely a healing quality about vulnerability, knowing you’re not alone and we can all help each other… if only more people saw it this way, and not something to be afraid of out of fear of appearing "weak". It takes a lot of courage to open your heart!
You are creating moments of intimate expressions throughout this platform, giving your time and energy to others. How do you make sure you are looking after yourself?
Good question! To be honest, a lot of my clients I see as my friends and the majority of the time it is a positive experience. Self care is super important to me and something I incorporate into my routine anyways. I make time to hang out with my friends, meditate, journal a lot, and every now and then I do yoga. It’s a lot easier to look after yourself and feel good when you love what you do, but the key is balance really.
Ken Fong © Boys in Polish
How would you describe your experience of lockdown?
Something I have said to a lot of my friends is that I have shed more tears in my usual routine compared to this lockdown. Haha, one for introverts like me. It just goes to show how people can really affect your mood and your whole vibe actually. Of course I love what I do but that’s not to say that it doesn’t get stressful at times, especially in a city like London that never sleeps. So I guess being able to truly relax and slow down is something I am enjoying and taking advantage of… and in those moments of boredom I remember that artists cannot exist without it! ‘Take it one day at a time’ is one of my mantras, thanks to my good friend Ollie. Definitely something we all need to remind ourselves in these times.
Have you still been able to express creativity during this period of isolation?
For sure, but I don’t feel guilty if I haven’t had a creative day because for some odd reason, people are seeing the word ‘productive’ instead of ‘pandemic’. Now more than ever, I check my motivations before I create, and in everything really, and this is something I want to be good at when lockdown is over. The main thing is for my creativity to come from a place of love and fulfilment, not to show off and seek attention from others. So, every now and then, I will work on some music. I have been painting a little too, nails and on paper!
What lies in store for you and Boys in Polish in the future?
I believe that Boys In Polish can grow into so many different branches. Not just nails but documentaries, music, fashion, campaigns, events, and more! I just need to attract the right fertilisers for these ideas to grow and come to fruition. I’m pretty open minded when it comes to collaboration and direction. The main thing for me is to keep spreading its purpose to the world.
