Janina Stone

SERIES: Braiding

Cut Paper Collage, Mixed Media & Oil Painting

I am interested in exploring the evolution of Black hair within history, and the important role Black hair still plays in today's culture. In early African civilizations hair was a way to indicate one's tribe, social status or lineage (braids, beads, cornrows). In the 1900’s many felt forced to adopt more anglicized hairstyles and began to alter their natural curls into something more “manageable” (straightened and processed) in order to fit into this European beauty standard. The civil rights movement of the 60's and 70's, brought a new wave of confidence and pride. Natural styles like the afro started to become popular, it was a symbol of rebellion and empowerment. It was a protest against changing who you are in order to blend into what society thinks is expectable. 

Even now, Black people still deal with the preconceptions of the past when it comes to hair, and it has become a big part in who we are. Hair is overlooked by many yet it is so impactful in the Black culture today. By bringing attention to the intricacy of Black hair, I would like to bring attention to the history that comes with.  From afros to dreads to wicks to box braids, the versatility of Black hair is beautiful.