When I found this installation on Colossal, an art and design blog, I remembered how grateful I am for my hair. I used to do art installations with my hair back in the day, I wish I kept pictures. In this installation piece, artist Jenine Shereos, has stitched and knotted every strand of hair to create intricate leaves, truly beautiful.
Hair has always been something I feel passionate about, in positive and negative ways. My mom’s side of the family has incredibly thick, strong, unruly, dark hair. To this day, I have not found anyone with thicker hair than mine. I used to think it was a nuisance that it had a life of its own, it would not stay in place no matter how many barrettes, braiding techniques, or products I used…and let me tell you, I tried everything. I was incredibly envious of those girls whose hair remained tame after brushing, for me it meant static wonderland.
Now that I am older, I realize that once I learned to surrender and live side by side with my enemy, this long, thick, unruly hair of mine became a blessing. I realized how fun and useful it can be. Growing up in a place were the mentality of re-use is nothing but second-nature, my mom and I always had use for our hair whenever stuck somewhere with limited tools. I remember tying, sewing, and even flossing (I know it sounds gross) with my hair thanks to my mom’s advice. I made art installations and jewelry when in art school, I specially remember making a beautifully braided bracelet for one of my boyfriends. Now I mainly use it to keep my neck warm in winter, for shade in the summer, as an accessory to dance with, and as a tool to reclaim my personal space. All I need is a few head shakes to make anyone step back. But more importantly, I use this hair to remind myself of my strength, that I come from powerful and resilient people who lived in rough environments, who experienced struggles of all kinds, and somehow managed to survive. Thank you mom for this beautiful gift!
Happy Friday everyone!
Happy Monday everyone!
