African hair sculptures: Fesa Nu telling stories through hair

Once a symbol of cultural identity and status, hair sculpting has become a celebrated art form. With roots in African culture, it has evolved into a diverse and inclusive artistic display of self expression. Through the lens of Fesa Nu experience as a hair sculptors we delve into the transformative power of hair.

Take us through your journey to becoming a hairstylist?

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I recall being eleven or twelve years old when I began my hair journey. I was raised by my dad, who knew nothing about hair. So, I realised early on that I will have to learn. Around that time I had a best friend that always came to school with really cute styles so I would go home and try to mimic each style until I got better. As I got older I met a girl whose sister was a hairstylist and we became really close and I would spend some time at their house and watch how her sister styled her hair.

Editorial shoot with hair done by Fesa Nu, Image: Nina Hawkins

I was so intrigued by her creativity. I studied her techniques on myself until I got better and eventually began doing hair on people at school. I was known for my creative braided styles which we used to call ‘freestyle braids’ back in the day. From that point on I developed a love for hairstyling and creating.

What is the significance behind calling yourself a hair poet?

‘Hair poet’ was the title I gave myself as an artist. Being a lover of all things poetry I developed a sense of escape when reading or listening to poetry. Poetry eventually became more of a feeling to me. I feel poetry each time I’m able to create from scratch. That means no one telling me what to do, and just allowing me to be free to express myself through their hair. Hair poetry is how I am set apart from hair styling.I graduated from being a hairstylist and wanted people to understand the difference when booking me.

Model hairstyled by Fesa Nu, Image: Bonnie Nichoalds

Your hair inspiration stems from the African continent, what does this mean to you in terms of cultural exchange and representation?

I believe it can break down stereotypes and help people appreciate our culture through the art of hair. Africa holds a significant amount of creativity starting with hair art, and why it is important to wear your hair certain ways because of the meaning behind certain styles. I believe this representation is needed to continue to educate those of its importance. A lot of my artistry comes from Africa — it has been such a huge inspiration in my craft.

How do you balance artistic expression with the emotional and personal aspects of working with hair?

My mind tends to wander a lot when I’m creating, which has always been a great thing for me because I can go to places I haven’t been before and envision what I want to see at that moment. So, it has always been a balance for me to allow my emotions to take over when I’m expressing myself through hair.

If you could change or reflect on one thing about women’s relationship with hair what would it be?

I would change the idea we have about what’s considered the beauty standard and I would want us to be more gentle to each stage we go through with our hair, because each stage tells a story.

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