Hair Art: From Umbrellas to Handbags Reimagined

Taiba Akhuetie is pushing the boundaries of art by utilizing human and synthetic hair to reimagine everyday objects. Her unique medium transforms items such as umbrellas, tables, chairs, lampshades, and handbags into works that possess a wild, wavy, and almost alive quality. These creations often evoke an eerie sensation, challenging viewers' perceptions of life and artistry.

Akhuetie's artistic journey began with childhood fascination and early experiences with braiding hair in Kingston, Surrey. Despite initial insecurities related to her Black identity in a predominantly white area, she developed a profound appreciation for the beauty and therapeutic nature of braids. This led to the establishment of Keash Braids, a successful braiding service and brand, which evolved into a permanent salon in Peckham, London.

The COVID-19 lockdown provided a pivotal moment, prompting Akhuetie to explore hair as a medium beyond styling heads. An installation created on a metal stool, wrapped in braids and teased hair, revealed her true artistic path. Her most recognized piece, a large umbrella adorned with abundant hair wefts, gained significant traction on TikTok, attracting attention from the couture world and publications like Vogue.

Akhuetie's art is not confined to fashion design, though she creates custom wearable pieces for notable figures like Rihanna, Tems, and Cate Blanchett. She emphasizes that her work is "for everyone," drawing inspiration from Black hair while celebrating universal beauty. Her sourcing of hair from local suppliers like Pak's in Dalston adds a layer of authenticity and connection to her creations.

The upcoming exhibition at the Sarabande Foundation in London, titled "The Tone," features her most ambitious work to date: a large cylindrical patchwork of various hair types. This piece, along with others like "Don't Touch My Table," addresses themes of racialized undertones, identity, and the societal curiosity surrounding Black hair. Akhuetie aims to challenge the art world's traditional definitions and affirm that hair-based creations are legitimate art forms, marking a significant personal milestone for her as a Black artist.