Hair.
It has qualities that are unique to each woman who bears it, much like each woman’s experiences are unique.
Artist Jill AnnieMargaret, spoke in the Union Ballroom Monday about how her printmaking work has helped share stories of traumatic experiences.
AnnieMargaret also brought with her an exhibit, titled the “Shed Project,” which features enlarged prints of human hair samples from women she worked with in a social intervention group in Argentina. The prints were described as “printed shadows of hair.” The women donated small samples of hair and were asked to share their experiences with domestic violence, sexual assault and other similar traumas.
“The hair is given willingly by combing,” said AnnieMargaret. “No one’s shaving their head or cutting their hair off. Basically, it’s a ritual to help others and show a collective path of healing.”
Hair can be a connection to the past, said AnnieMargaret.
“Working with my actual hair is a verifiable biological parameter; it’s my DNA,” AnnieMargaret said. “I learned that hair contains our mitochondrial DNA and can actually trace our maternal ancestry as far back as possible.”
Abstract use of the hair helps develop her work, such as repeated images and floating figures, symbolizing recurring memories and dissociation, respectively. Both are associated with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
The exhibit is being hosted with participation from the SAFE Project, a local organization that works with victims of domestic violence and sexual assault.
Lisa Zirbel, coordinator at Gallery 234, said that the content of the lecture and exhibit were a large reason AnnieMargaret was chosen as a guest artist.
“Gallery 234 states in the application process that exhibits with an interactive or social justice component are encouraged,” said Zirbel. “Partnering with SAFE Project came about after learning that her lecture and exhibit pertained to domestic violence and abuse.”
The collaborative effort aims to bring attention to such social issues through a new, relatable and accessible medium, said Zirbel.
“There’s a lot of information out there in the world about people who have experienced abuse,” AnnieMargaret said. “There’s also people who make abstract art on the subject, but I’m trying to find a different way around talking about this to create an unexpected experience for the viewer and a different voice for someone who may have experienced this trauma.”
Jill AnnieMargaret’s exhibit will be held at Gallery 234 in the Union until Thursday, April 23.
