Must see: Human hair artwork becomes showpiece
From the Belvidere Cornerstone, pictured is artist Susan Doran with hairwork wreath
Susan Doran, an artist participating in the 2024 Rural and Traditional Arts Fellowship, spent this summer traveling throughout Allegany County to present The Lost Art of Sentimental Hairwork. In her presentations, she explored the history and techniques of this unique Victorian-era craft. Victorian hair wreaths, intricately made from human hair, often feature elaborate floral designs formed by twisting and braiding.
Doran’s wreath was crafted using hair donated by Allegany County residents, with each lock symbolizing an individual. Together, these contributions create a unified showpiece, the “Community Unity Wreath,” symbolizing the strength and connection of the local community.
The public is invited to view the completed wreath at the Belvidere Cornerstone, located at 5781 County Road 20, Belmont, NY, during Allegany Artisan Weekend: October 19 & 20 from 10 am to 5 pm and at the Genesee Country Village & Museum on November 2 at 1 p.m.
For more information, visit www.belviderecornerstone.com, or follow on Facebook and Instagram.
