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 Nikiwe Dlova’s experiences as hair sculptors we delve into the transformative power of hair.
When and how did your fascination with hair begin?
When I was a teenager, I used to enjoy going to salons to do something new and creative with my hair. In 2015, that’s when I got to experiment more with my natural hair. I wanted to do different hairstyles using wool, hair extensions and Afro/curly wigs.
What sparked your interest in hair sculpting?
My interest in the versatility of hair was growing and I wanted to merge my fashion background with hair art to create an African royalty feel. I got into hair sculpting in 2016, creating headpieces using wire, beads and hair extensions. My brand’s name is ownURcrown, so headpieces made sense for selling and introducing the brand. Now, I do artworks, hair sculptures and creative hairstyles.
How do you explored themes of identity, culture or feminism in hair?
Identity, culture or feminism are weaved in hair; it’s part of our identity, you’re born with it, part of our culture. Different hairstyles are for different moments and women primarily spend more time adorning their hair than men. So you can say I have explored these themes in all my projects — they are not separate from hair.
What role do you think hair sculptors can play in shaping cultural narratives around beauty and identity
By learning about your identity, you can appreciate the beauty of who you are and fi nd the confidence to capture and share those feelings and knowledge through an art expression that impacts and relates to someone else’s life. The role is simple: keep creating and creating with ease.
How has your relationship with your own hair evolved over the years?
I’ve learnt that we all have different hair textures; all my hair needs is water and oil. It shouldn’t be annoying to take care of your hair — maybe it just needs water and patience.
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