An undated provided photo of a portrait of model CJ Thomas included in the exhibit "Don't Touch My Hair: An Interactive Crowned Experience." The installation is on display at the Rogue Gallery & Art Center in Medford through Feb. 27.
Courtesy Crystal Proffitt
Southern Oregon artist Crystal Proffitt has always had a connection to hair. As a dancer, she grew comfortable styling her own hair for performances, and later worked as a professional hairstylist. But she’s also had strangers approach her to touch or tug her curls unsolicited, an experience she says isn’t uncommon for people of color.
Proffitt channeled those experiences and others into the art installation “Don’t Touch My Hair: An Interactive Crowned Experience.” It features portraits of local models accompanied by audio descriptions of their own experiences with their hair. The installation will be on display at the Rogue Gallery & Art Center in Medford through Feb. 27.
Proffitt joins us to talk more about the installation and the ways hair can convey beauty, culture, memory and identity.
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