Our black hair has a rich and unique history that deserves to be celebrated. Alisha Brooks and Elizabeth Austin-Davis, creator and owner of the Black Hair Experience, opened four pop-up selfie museums to tell a story about Black women and their hair.
My Black Queen, what is all that you do with your hair? Did you know that you can share your unique hair story with the Black Hair Experience and be featured on their social media platforms? 😊
Yes! Head to their website or check them out on Instagram to learn more.
Okay, yall – if you have not visited the Black Hair Experience DC Pop-Up at the Tanger Outlets National Harbor. Let me tell you; it’s a must-visit for families trying to understand more about our natural hair and culture.
I recently took my kids to the Black Hair Pop-Up Museum in the DMV, and we all had a blast! My 8-year-old daughter was curious about the exhibits and had many questions about her AFRO. The Black Hair Museum was an excellent opportunity for her to see African American hairstyles’ diversity and creativity. It helps her understand why we Black women use different hairstyles to maintain and keep up our hair.
Oh, Chile, did I tell yall that she asked about wigs and why we use them too. It was a wonderful experience for the whole family, and I highly recommend it to anyone interested in learning more about the rich history and cultural significance of Black hair.
Things to know before you plan a trip:
- The Black Hair Experience in the DMV is located at Tanger Outlets National Harbor and time slot tickets must be purchased in advance.
- For those planning to go— please note that your tickets are nonrefundable/ non-transferrable. However, you can reschedule your visit if you need to. Use the link you received from where you bought your tickets.
- You can also check out any of their other locations in Austin, Texas, Los Angeles, California, Atlanta, Georgia, or Brooklyn, New York.
- You should arrive 15 minutes before your session starts because the museum visits are timed for crowd management. I appreciated that we were the only family there during our time, and I felt comfortable bringing my 6-month-old.
- Come picture perfect – as you will walk through more than 25 Instagrammable Installations for you and your family to snap photos.
- If your kids don’t have as many questions as mine did— it will take you between 30-45 minutes to go through the experience.
- I also learned that you could rent out their space for a birthday celebration, wedding, or corporate event.
- Oh, before I share the address below. The museum is a vibe; if there is anything music-wise that you want to listen to while you are there, just let them know – I like these types of accommodations.
Address: 6800 Oxon Hill Rd Suite 360, Oxon Hill, MD 20745
Hours:
Thursday: 2:00pm – 7:00pm
Friday: 2:00pm – 7:00pm
Saturday: 10:00am – 7:00pm
Sunday: 12:00pm – 6:00pm
Cost:
General Admission: $30
VIP Admission: $50 (includes a swag bag)
Age group: 7 years and older
Parking: There is plenty of parking at the mall. Please Park by Tommy Hilfiger or Brooks Brothers Factory Store to be closer to your destination.
The Exhibits at the Black Hair Experience
The Black Hair Experience Pop-Up Museum offers each location a unique and interactive experience. At the DMV location, visitors can expect to see exhibits like The Black Hair Experience Swing, The Hot Comb, and “Fix My Hair. There are many other exhibits, such as ” The Hair Salon, The ABCs of Black Hair, Hood Earrings, “Elements of Black Hair,” “My Hair Is Not Unprofessional,” and more.
Although the exhibits are visually self-explanatory for those familiar with black hair culture, I wish there was more information or description for each show. For example, the history of the hot comb – who was the creator, and when did it become popular in our culture? While some of us may still use hot combs today, our younger generation may only know about flat irons. Adding more information and context to each exhibit would enhance the museum experience and provide a deeper understanding of black hair history and culture.
Discover the Artistic Expressions of Black Hair
African American hair has always been a source of pride and self-expression for Black people. It is a powerful symbol of identity used to challenge societal norms and push back against systemic oppression. From the Afro of the 1960s to the braids and dreadlocks of today, Black hair has been a tool of resistance and a means of reclaiming control over one’s body.
The Black Hair Experience Pop-Up Art Exhibit celebrates the creativity and artistry that goes into black hair. From elaborate braids and intricate cornrows to bold and daring Afrocentric hairstyles, the exhibit showcases the diverse range of styles that can be achieved with Black hair.
With a focus on showcasing the cultural and personal expressions of Black hair, the exhibit features a range of works by talented photographers, artists, and stylists. From stunning photographs of natural hairstyles to bold and colorful paintings, there is something to inspire everyone who visits the exhibit.
Explore the Beauty of Natural Hair
For many people, natural hair symbolizes pride, heritage, and identity. At the Black Hair Experience Pop-Up Art Exhibit, you can explore natural hair’s beauty and learn about our unique hair type’s history and cultural significance.
By honoring the history and cultural significance of African American hair, the National Harbor’s Black Hair Pop-Up Museum serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength of Black people. It also provides a space for visitors to appreciate the unique beauty and diversity of Black hair and to learn about the many different styles, techniques, and equipment, like the hot comb used in creating these stunning and intricate works of art.
With a range of exhibits showcasing the diversity of natural hair, from tight curls to loose waves, the show offers a unique opportunity to learn about the different textures and styles that can be achieved with natural hair. Whether you are looking to embrace your natural hair or want to learn more about this vital part of our Black culture, the exhibit has something for everyone.
Shop and Workshops
The Black Hair Experience Pop-Up Art Exhibit is more than just a display of art and photography; it is an interactive and immersive experience. With a variety of products for sale and they’re “we care” workshops, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Here are three highlights you can look forward to:
The We Care Workshops, best known as their community outreach program, dedicate time, love, and resources to empower young girls.
Opportunities to connect with other black hair enthusiasts.
Product demonstrations and product giveaways
Whether you are looking to learn new hair techniques or want to experience the beauty of Black hair for yourself, there is something for everyone at the Black Hair Experience Pop-Up Art Exhibit. So come along and immerse yourself in the world of black hair!
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