The Musée des Arts Décoratifs presents an unusual exhibition. Its title? “Des poils et des cheveux", which means “Hair and Hairs”, a theme decidedly out of the ordinary!
It is undoubtedly a title that challenges us, because it is difficult to imagine hair as a work of art. So what is the real theme of this exhibition? “Hair and Hairs” highlights our relationship with the body, the social and cultural changes in relation to it, and the evolution of beauty standards over the centuries.
Hair and body hair are indeed important indicators of the evolution of social codes and fashion phenomena. Just like clothes and jewelry, they have a primary importance in the construction of our appearance.
In Western culture, hair has been conceived as an element to be tamed for centuries. As civilized men and women, we paint it, tie it and transform it to fit the image we wish to project to others.
In the same way, over the centuries, hair has been a symbol of virility, protest, neglect, or adherence to fashion.
The history of hairstyles is very rich. From the Middle Ages to today, we have known wigs, hair used to make jewelry, sculptures and more…
The museum questions the evolution of our practices and values the professionals who are the real protagonists of these phenomena.
The unique and astonishing creations of great protagonists of fashion such as Jean-Paul Gaultier and Alexandre McQueen are also put forward to prove how much hair can convey artistic creation.
As you can see, by visiting this exhibition, you will be offered an atypical journey in the history of fashion and trends, with a touch of humor and an amazing creative approach.
Until 17/09/2023. Open every day except Monday, from 11 am to 6 pm. Nocturne on Thursday until 9 pm.
Photo ©Birmingham Museum Trust - Unsplash