THE SHOP
This work explores the appreciation of hair within Black culture and barber and beauty shops. When you view this work I want the viewer to understand that Black hair is more than an aesthetic, it’s NOT a costume, and it’s NOT something you can put on or take off. Black hair is about tradition, community, and culture. Hair is an extension of our bodies that holds our memories and emotions. OUR HAIR IS OUR CROWN! I want the viewer to understand that barber and beauty shops within Black culture can be viewed as safe havens, where we can rely on each other to build each other up, to vent, to cry, and to laugh. I want viewers to understand that getting your hair cut or done is a form of self care and that self care stimulates healthy mental health. I want viewers to understand that it takes a village not only when we’re younger, but as we continue to grow, and that we can turn to our members of our community to help restore ourselves!