\"Rooted In Pride\"

by Ashton Burton

\"Rooted In Pride\"\n\nglazed terracotta ceramic\n\n11\" X 10\" X 9\"\n\n2025\n\n\n Embellishments that are locked in place and shields areas in the hair to illuminate the immense cultural and historical significance, serving as a powerful form of identity, resistance, and creative expression. Beads, berrets, hair crowns and cowrie shells are some of many different items used to enrich and complement afrocentric hair. These four are the most commonly used in the United States; particularly in modern times, challenging eurocentric beauty standards and reclaiming autonomy over one's appearance. Present in Western African countries, cowrie shells have been used as: currency, symbols of wealth, and objects of cultural and spiritual importance. For thousands of years adornment of afrocentric hair has unapologetically been a way to show off pride in community, heritage and culture.