“The Black Hair Experience,” a new pop-up art exhibit at National Harbor, celebrates Black beauty and culture in the social media age.
“The whole premise of the experience is to really further the message that all Black hair is beautiful,” said creator Elizabeth Austin.
She and partner Alisha Brooks started the interactive exhibit in Atlanta two years ago and are now expanding nationwide. Other exhibits are set to open in Dallas, Austin, Houston, New York and Los Angeles.
“The Black Hair Experience” features over 20 installations — including what it calls “Instagrammable spaces.”
As conversations around race and social justice continue in the wake of George Floyd’s murder last year, Austin said she hopes this year the exhibit will take on new meaning as it provides a reminder of the importance of self-love.
“Unfortunately, our hair is political,” she said. “We as Black people should have the choice to wear our hair as we choose. We’re really excited to be able to put this together, and it’s only the beginning for us.”
Tickets to “The Black Hair Experience” are available online and cost $32; a $52 VIP ticket includes a “swag bag.” The museum is open Thursdays through Sundays through next May.
Find more information on The Black Hair Experience website.
