The virtual exhibition framing Black Hair as an art form
An exhibition by celebrity hairstylist Jawara Wauchope that comments on the social complexes of black hair in society
G-Club
November 5th, 2020
November 5th, 2020
For the past few years, one of the top young creatives for hair in the fashion industry has been London-based hairstylist Jawara Wauchope. His expertise in the avant-garde crafting of black hair has resonated deeply with many creatives in and outside of the local industry and has caught the eyes of celebrity collaborators like Beyoncé, Solange, Cardi B, Naomi Campbell, Mary J. Blige among others.
In one of his most recent ventures, the hairstylist has partnered with his creative agency Art Partner for the launch of a virtual exhibition of some of his most iconic work entitled COARSE: The Edges of Black Ingenuity . Curated by the artist himself, the exhibition features images by top fashion photographers such as Tyler Mitchell, Kristin-Lee Moolman, Nadine Ijewere among others that document the intricacy of afro-hairstyles as an art-form. In each piece of his work the artist has managed to use hair to tell stories of a modern reality where black hair styles are seen through a complex artistic light as opposed to whatever stigmatized view that is usually put upon it.
“It is my intention to use this platform to curate a storied journey of triumph through the power of our follicles. I was taught at a young age that “hair is strength” by my mother who hasn’t cut her hair in 43 years. I believe that the best way to convey this truth is through beauty,” the artist explained.
Running from now until late December 2020, the virtual compilation of images display black hair as something way different than a cosmetic feature but enables one to think of it with commentary on gender, class, race and spirituality.
“For some, hair can be a locus of torment, a source of personal anguish, a place where we don't have a choice, where we feel vulnerable to the pressures of society and lose our sense of self to fit and align with the power or perceptions of others. We celebrate the Blackness of our legacy, history, present-day, and visions for our future through our illustrious HAIR.“ he further commented in his statement.
Take a full tour of the virtual exhibition on ArtPartner.com
