Black Beauty as an Act of Resistance by Imani Warren

Since ancient times, hair and beauty rituals have been a powerful expression of identity and culture for people of African descent Black Beauty as an Act of Resistance dives deep into the rich, creative world of Black hair—celebrating service, love, joy, and resilience. Hair has long symbolized social status, from tribal kingdoms to the era of slavery, and this exhibit takes place in the sacred setting of a 1930s back-porch hair shop, where clients came to get their hair styled, wigs perfected, and edges laid.

We invite you to walk down memory lane, paying tribute to mothers, sisters, cousins, and the trailblazing women who shaped generations. This exhibit captures the beauty that has flourished through struggles and triumphs, honoring the women of the past who, in their fight for freedom, ingeniously concealed rice grains and maps of the Underground Railroad in their hair.

You’ll also discover the story of David and Laurel Julius, pioneers who opened the Sunlight School of Beauty Culture in Overtown in 1936. Laurel, a former stylist for the legendary Madame CJ Walker, along with her husband, carried forward a legacy of beauty culture that spanned across Alabama and Jamaica. Their contribution, along with others, continues to shine as a testament to the power and significance of Black beauty.

Art of Black Miami