A new photography exhibition celebrating Liverpool's distinctive relationship with hair and personal style is set to open at the Museum of Liverpool. Titled 'Curly Blows, Cuts and Curlers', the free display will run from 3 October to 8 March, exploring how hairstyles have shaped the city's identity over the decades.
The exhibition features a collection of images from local and national photographers that capture the essence of Liverpool's salons and barbershops, highlighting their role as vital community hubs and spaces for self-expression.
Key Takeaways
- Exhibition Name: Curly Blows, Cuts and Curlers
- Location: Museum of Liverpool
- Dates: 3 October to 8 March
- Admission: Free to the public
- Theme: The social and cultural impact of hair on Liverpool's identity, celebrating 'everyday style queens'.
- Featured Artists: Includes work from Alex Hurst, Abdullah Badwi, Paul Trevor, and The Caravan Gallery.
A Photographic Journey Through Liverpool's Style
The upcoming 'Curly Blows, Cuts and Curlers' exhibition at the Museum of Liverpool offers a unique look into the city's famous flair for fashion and hair. The display is designed to reflect on the significant social and cultural impact of local identity, with a special focus on how hair salons and barbershops have become central to community life.
Through a series of compelling photographs, the exhibition aims to honor the city's 'everyday style queens'. These are the individuals whose personal style, from classic mop tops to modern curly blows, defines Liverpool's reputation for being a place that embraces bold self-expression.
What is a 'Curly Blow'?
The 'curly blow' is a signature Liverpool hairstyle characterized by big, bouncy curls created with a round brush and hairdryer. It became a hugely popular look in the city, symbolizing a glamorous and well-maintained appearance that is synonymous with Liverpool's beauty culture.
The collection brings together works from several notable photographers. Visitors will see images captured by local talents Alex Hurst and Abdullah Badwi, alongside pieces from Paul Trevor and the creative duo behind The Caravan Gallery. Each artist provides a different perspective on how hair is intertwined with personal stories and the city's collective spirit.
The Heart of the Community: Salons and Barbershops
Kay Jones, a curator at the Museum of Liverpool, emphasized the deeper narrative behind the images. The exhibition goes beyond just hairstyles to explore the crucial role that hair salons and barbers play within local communities.
"The exhibition tells a multitude of stories about hair, identity, and the city," stated Kay Jones. "What is very apparent is the importance of salons and barbers in our communities bringing people together, whilst helping us to express our unique personal styles over time, often in fun and outrageous ways."
These establishments are presented not just as places for a haircut, but as essential social spaces where people connect, share stories, and build relationships. The photographs on display aim to capture this sense of community, showing customers and stylists in their familiar environments across different eras.
The curation process also involved uncovering the histories of those depicted in the photographs. According to Jones, this has added a rich layer of personal insight to the display.
"The images have really been brought to life, incorporating the previously untold stories of people featured in the photographs alongside the personal insights of the photographers inspired to take the shots," she added. This approach ensures the exhibition is a tribute to the real people who have shaped Liverpool's style legacy.
A Glimpse into the Past
The exhibition includes historical photographs that provide a window into Liverpool's past. One notable image by Alex Hurst captures three customers at 'Pam's' salon on Coronation Road in Crosby, dated 1998. Another, by Peter Rimmer, shows Martin Ross at 164 Princes Road in Toxteth during 1976/77, showcasing the evolution of styles over the decades.
Exploring Identity Through the Lens
'Curly Blows, Cuts and Curlers' delves into how hairstyles are a powerful form of self-identification. For many in Liverpool, a chosen hairstyle is more than just a trend; it is a statement of belonging, personality, and pride. The exhibition documents this phenomenon through carefully selected imagery.
The photographers featured have captured moments that are both intimate and representative of broader cultural trends. From the bustling energy of a Saturday morning salon to the quiet focus of a barber at work, the images collectively build a visual narrative of the city's character.
The city's reputation for being style-conscious is a central theme. The exhibition materials note that Liverpool is a city "that isn't afraid to glow up," and the photographs serve as a testament to this confident and often glamorous approach to personal appearance.
- Cultural Significance: The display examines how specific hairstyles became iconic within Liverpool.
- Personal Stories: It connects the photographs to the real-life experiences of the subjects.
- Community Hubs: The exhibition underscores the social value of local salons and barbers.
Visitor and Event Information
The 'Curly Blows, Cuts and Curlers' exhibition is a key part of the Museum of Liverpool's autumn and winter schedule. It is open to all members of the public, and admission is completely free.
The display will be available for viewing from Thursday, 3 October, and will run through the winter until Saturday, 8 March of the following year. This extended period gives both residents and visitors ample opportunity to experience this unique celebration of Liverpool's cultural heritage.
The Museum of Liverpool is located at Pier Head and is one of the anchor venues of the city's waterfront. This exhibition provides another compelling reason to visit and explore the stories that make Liverpool unique.