A new mobile art exhibit in Newark, inspired by the Crown Act, is making a significant impact on the community through the celebration of Black hair. Titled Don’t Touch My Hair, the exhibit was created by Newark native and filmmaker Ayana Morris as part of the Newark Arts Festival.
Located in Harriet Tubman Square, the exhibit features portraits of Black women representing different decades, highlighting the evolving relationship between hair and social movements. “I wanted to create a beautiful sensory experience,” Morris explained.
The exhibit aims to challenge societal norms surrounding Black hair while also celebrating its beauty. “It’s my mission to be a silent ambassador for the Crown Act,” Morris stated. “This experience is meant to help people understand why it’s important to respect our hair. It’s a rallying cry.”
The Crown Act prohibits discrimination based on hair texture or style, particularly those associated with race. New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed the legislation into law in 2019. Morris added, “As Black people, we’re frustrated with being ostracized for our natural hairstyles.”
Visitors can walk through a modified shipping container adorned with 3D hands hanging from the ceiling, symbolizing the intrusive act of touching Black women’s hair. The mirrored walls display portraits of women with hairstyles linked to key moments in Black history.
Morris believes such exhibits are crucial for the community. “Young girls and women should see a beautiful reflection of themselves, and why not in Newark?” she said.
The exhibit will remain in Newark until November 15 and is free to the public. It is open on Wednesdays from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. during the food truck festival and from Friday to Sunday from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. After Newark, the exhibit will travel to Miami for the international art fair, Art Basel.
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