ELISA H. HAMILTON
  • Projects
  • Works on Paper
    • Patchwork, 2023-2025
    • Hair Care, 2021-2022
    • Love Bravely, 2021-2023
    • Underline, 2017-2024
  • Exhibitions
  • About
  • Connect

HAIR CARE
​​2021-2022

Selected Works


The Hair Care series examines hair care articles from my childhood.  Growing up as Black/biracial in a predominantly white community, I had a complex relationship with my hair that evolved into shame as I approached adolescence. My hair wouldn’t do the things that the other girls’ hair did, and aside from my sister, I didn’t know any other girls with hair like me.  It took me over 20 years, but now, as an adult, I love my hair.  In adulthood, my hair has become the most wonderful connector between me and other women of color.  It has activated countless conversations about self-love, personal care, and identity. My hair used to make me feel isolated, but now it reminds me that I am part of a community; and, my hair connects me to my ancestors - a legacy of strong, beautiful people who survived.

These works are crayon and black gesso on paper. 
Click on each thumbnail to view full artwork image and details.​​​
© COPYRIGHT ELISA H. HAMILTON 2026
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED


  • Projects
  • Works on Paper
    • Patchwork, 2023-2025
    • Hair Care, 2021-2022
    • Love Bravely, 2021-2023
    • Underline, 2017-2024
  • Exhibitions
  • About
  • Connect