Hair Stories reminds me that to arrive at
self-love is a journey. It often begins with
self-doubt that, through time and experience, ends
finally at self-realization. The kaleidoscopic nature
of Rickert-Bolter’s digital painting reminds us that
our self-image can transform from disorganized and
unrecognizable into something vibrant and beautiful
once we face the light and alter our view.
This piece prompted me to recall my own hair journey.
It reminded me of my dislike for my hair texture, curl
pattern, and, at times, length. I was also compelled
to interrogate the ways in which the broader culture
defined and policed beauty and how that translated
into my own personal understanding of what is
considered beautiful hair. I thought I had ugly hair
but, with time, I’ve faced the light and altered my
view. I have arrived at a self-love that exclaims my
hair is, in fact, beautiful!
—AMBER STARKS (A.K.A. MELANIN MVSKOKE)