Funlola Coker

This is an ode to hair that has been shunned, dismissed, chemically burned and hidden for centuries. This series is an effort to come to terms with conflicting feelings I have borne the moment I realised the significance of the crown that was placed upon my head from birth. I invite the viewer into my space, to experience my daily rituals and the intimate and complex relationship with my hair.

Brushing, shedding, cutting, detangling … discard

These hairs from my head, light as a feather

Yet heavy with the weight of history

These fallen hairs are gathered for a new purpose, a drawing of sorts. They are truly dead, but the moment they make contact with hot fused glass, they come back to life—crackling and dancing on the surface. Each hair takes its last breath and fizzles into the air.

Leaving its scent, an intense mark, stronger even—than when it was a part of me.

MFA Metals

Funlola coKer in Conversation with JessiCa BeCkwith

Jessica Beckwith: You spoke about your hair as a crown, and your work uses a form that has its references in Imperial royalty. In the act of making this piece were you claiming your own power, grandeur, and sovereignty?

Funlola Coker: I suppose you could say that by making this piece I was reclaiming some sort of power that was stripped away by the British Empire. I think for me, if I was actively trying to reclaim anything it was just my desire to exist despite the impact of the British Empire on my Nigeria (where I am from).

JB: I love the image of you wearing this symbol on your chest that holds your hair which, as you describe, has been given a new life and risen from its death through the heat of the glass, rich with a scent made stronger through this metamorphosis. It’s a powerful image. Did you experience a similar metamorphosis in the making of this piece?

FC: I chose the format of the brooch because it is historically recognised as a symbol of identity. In making it a little larger than normal size, it is unapologetically displayed close to the heart. Wearing it has an impact on me as much as it has on the viewer. If I experienced a metamorphosis, it was in taking the steps to be able to speak about these very internalized

My Honour | My Shame Enamel on copper, mild steel, sterling silver, artist’s hair, stainless steel, 4.75 x 3.5 in.