36TH CHAMBER

WHERE ART MEETS AUTHENTICITY

By Louise May.

Jeremy Ponton AKA last.hairblender is the owner and director of the 36th Chamber in Gunghalin,ACT. Where he has dedicated himself to utilising the space as a vehicle to embody and express his values and purpose.

Beyond barbering, Jeremy brings a deep love of design into everything he does, allowing him to explore and express creativity across various mediums. Whether it’s graphic design, music, hair, interior design, videography, or photography—if it can be designed, he’s all in.

His mission is to encourage true authenticity, not just in how people present themselves but in how they live their lives. He’s passionate about fostering aspiring creatives and providing them with a place where they can belong and grow.

At the 36th Chamber, the goal is to ensure that everyone who walks through the door feels seen, heard, and valued. Whether it’s through a haircut, a meaningful conversation, or through one of their events. Recently, Jeremy was also a finalist in the 2024 AMBA’s with his collection, REFLECTION, which explores themes of identity, authenticity, and transformation.

Louise May, Editor of Barbershop Magazine, sits down with Jeremy Ponton to uncover the vision, passion, and purpose behind the 36th Chamber.

Can you share the story behind choosing the name “36th Chamber” for your barbershop?

The name “36th Chamber” was carefully chosen to represent something far greater than just hair. It was important for me to have a name that could stand on its own — something timeless, culturally resonant, and capable of embodying a larger idea, a movement, and a culture.

The inspiration stems from the idea of transformation and mastery, as well as the connection to the classic martial arts film The 36th Chamber of Shaolin. The film is about the journey of discipline, growth, and becoming a master in your craft, all while creating something that has a meaningful impact on the community.

For me, the name signifies a space where people can not only enhance their appearance but also tap into a sense of belonging and personal growth. It’s about creating a chamber—a sanctuary—where art, culture, and authenticity thrive together. It’s a representation of a lifestyle, a creative hub, and a testament to the power of individuality and transformation.

How have the influences of “The 36th Chamber of Shaolin” and the Wu-Tang Clan shaped your vision for the business?

The “aha” moment came when I reflected on what barbershops meant to me growing up. They were always neutral ground—spaces where it didn’t matter who you were, what school you went to, or who you didn’t see eye-to-eye with. In that space, everyone was welcome, and anything was possible. That sense of inclusivity and connection was the foundation I wanted to build on.

At the end of The 36th Chamber of Shaolin, San Te creates the 36th chamber, an entirely new space accessible to those outside the monastery because he believes that no one should be above another. That message deeply resonated with me. My vision for the barbershop was to create a modern “36th chamber,” where everyone—regardless of background—can feel a sense of belonging, transformation, and inspiration.

The Wu-Tang Clan, one of my favourite rap groups, drew their own inspiration from the same film. To me, they represent the power of unique individuals from different walks of life coming together to create something greater than the sum of their parts. That idea of collaboration, individuality, and shared culture aligns perfectly with the environment I aim to cultivate at the shop—a creative hub where diverse talents and personalities can thrive together and build something larger than life.

Why is fostering self-expression and individuality so important to you and your brand?

Ultimately, I believe fostering individuality isn’t just about personal expression—it’s about creating a ripple effect of inspiration. When people embrace who they are, they empower others to do the same. That’s the kind of culture I want to champion through 36th Chamber. That’s why diversity and uniqueness aren’t just welcomed—they’re vital. From how we interact with clients to the creative projects we take on; everything is designed to honour the individuality of everyone who walks through our doors.

Can you tell us about your Collection for the 2024 AMBA’s and what inspired it?

REFLECTION is deeply personal—it’s a project born from a journey of internal forgiveness and understanding, not only of my own past, present, and future but also of the countless lives I’ve intersected with and those I’ve yet to encounter.

At its core, the collection is an exploration of human identity and the intricate layers that make up who we are. We all wear masks—some consciously, others subconsciously—crafted by our experiences and shaped by the environments we navigate.

Many of these masks are a response to trauma, survival mechanisms that help us adapt but can also obscure our true selves. The reality is most people go through life without fully acknowledging or reconciling these different personas.

This collection sought to highlight that journey—the tension between our inner and outer selves, the light and dark we all carry, and the reconciliation of these facets to discover authenticity. I believe that only by accepting these masks, whether they are born from joy or pain, can we truly embrace who we are. REFLECTION is not just about seeing ourselves clearly but also about finding peace in the balance of our many sides.

If someone walked into 36th Chamber for the first time, what would you want them to feel or experience?

I always think back to my very first barbershop experience at Canberra’s OG. Roger David, run by Danny “Rambo” Ram. That place wasn’t just a barbershop—it was a vibe, a memory etched into my soul. There will never be another place quite like it, but it left a lasting impression on me, one that shaped my vision for 36th Chamber.

What I felt as a kid walking into Roger David on a Friday night after school was more than just excitement. It was a mix of awe, belonging, and inspiration—a space where the energy was electric, and you felt like you were part of something special. That’s the feeling I want to recreate at 36th Chamber. If I can help someone walking through our doors experience even a fraction of what I felt back then, I know I’ve done my part.

What role does the local community play in your business, and how do you give back or stay connected to it?

We interact daily with many talented individuals, especially those in the arts, who often express feeling a lack of support and recognition in Canberra. This insight has ignited our passion to be a catalyst for change, creating a platform where local talent can truly thrive. Recently, we hosted a pop-up rave featuring renowned Detroit DJ “DJ Assault” alongside local DJ Womba. Despite having less than 24 hours to organise, the event showcased the versatility of our space and was met with an incredible turnout, proving the potential of our vision.

This success has inspired us to think bigger. Next year, when DJ Assault returns, we’re planning to host a Canberra Celebration Festival. This event will bring together multiple singers, rappers, and DJs for performances throughout the day and night, with local vendor stalls set up in front of the shop to further engage the community. Through events like these, we aim to celebrate and amplify the creative spirit of Canberra.

Looking ahead, how do you see your “why” evolving, and what’s next for you and your business?

As we continue to grow, our focus is on redefining what a barbershop can be. The goal is to create a space that moves beyond traditional stereotypes—a place that’s not just inclusive but innovative. Hair doesn’t belong to any one gender, and the way we approach grooming should reflect that.

Looking toward 2025, we’re exploring the idea of a hybrid space that fuses the energy and culture of a barbershop with the creativity and versatility of a salon. It’s about breaking down barriers and offering an environment where individuality thrives, no matter who you are. This evolution isn’t just about staying current—it’s about leading the way in creating a truly universal space for self-expression and connection.

@last.hairblender @36thchamber