黑料不打烊

Chains & Crowns explores Afro hairstyles as both cultural heritage and socio-political expression, tracing their origins from Africa and the Caribbean through historical cycles of oppression and celebration. These styles have evolved as symbols of survival, adaptability, and creativity within Black communities, representing a resilient aesthetic deeply rooted in style, communal identity, and the triumphs of self-expression. The exhibit illuminates how Black hair has not only been a personal statement but also a collective narrative, shaping and influencing

character in Western culture while carrying a legacy of beauty, resilience, and joy.

This exhibition also addresses the commodification of Black hair, examining the objectification of Black individuals through their hair and the inequities in the beauty industry. Despite Black consumers driving a significant portion of beauty sales, Black-owned brands represent only a fraction of the revenue, highlighting systemic barriers to economic inclusion. These works are a call for reclaiming autonomy and promoting equity, urging a reexamination of how Black hair and its cultural significance are valued and respected in contemporary society.