Black women's heads of hair are galaxies unto themselves, solar systems,
moonscapes, volcanic interiors.
--Elizabeth Alexander, from the Introduction
Using advertising photographs of black women (and men) drawn from
vintage issues of Ebony and Jet magazines, the exquisite and
thought-provoking collages of world-renowned artist Lorna Simpson
explore the richly nuanced language of hair. Surreal coiffures made from
colorful ink washes, striking geological formations from old textbooks,
and other unexpected forms and objects adorn the models to mesmerizingly
beautiful effect.
Featuring 160 artworks, an artist's statement, and an introduction by
poet, author, and scholar Elizabeth Alexander, this volume celebrates
the irresistible power of Simpson's visual vernacular.