Ivorian Artist Laetitia Ky Transforms Hair into Empowering Sculptures
Ivorian artist Laetitia Ky is renowned for her unique practice of creating sculptural hairstyles, typically using her own natural hair as the primary material. In a special departure from her usual solo work, Ky recently collaborated with her younger sister, Florencia, to craft a piece that visually represents their profound bond. This rare inclusion highlights the intimacy and trust inherent in their relationship, as Ky seldom styles anyone else's hair.
From Childhood Pain to Artistic Empowerment
Growing up in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, Ky was exposed to beauty standards heavily influenced by colonial history, where straight hair was often prized over natural textures. She recalls receiving her first hair relaxer at just four years old, a common practice at the time that led her to develop a deep-seated dislike for her natural hair. Over the years, however, Ky has transformed that early pain into a powerful, empowering art form that celebrates her roots and identity.
By placing herself at the centre of her images, Ky aims to provide representation for people who share her features, asserting that they belong in art and are worthy of visibility. Her work is not merely aesthetic; each hairstyle is meticulously constructed to convey specific ideas or messages, with creation times ranging from 30 minutes to over six hours.
A Special Tribute to Sisterhood
The collaborative piece with her sister Florencia was crafted for Ky's book, Love and Justice, which combines images of her hair sculptures with reflections on feminism, identity, and women's experiences. Ky describes Florencia as her best friend and first example of meaningful female relationships, noting that their connection has always been strong and supportive.
Creating this sculpture required several hours of careful work, as Ky had to sculpt both hairstyles to interact and hold their shape effectively. In Ivorian culture, allowing someone to style your hair is a sign of deep trust, due to beliefs that hair can be used for spiritual purposes. Thus, Ky styling her sister's hair underscores the mutual trust and closeness they share.
Artistic Process and Personal Significance
Ky's artistic process involves adding extensions to her natural hair and shaping it with thread and wire, followed by self-photography using a camera and tripod. The choice to photograph only herself has always been deeply personal, making the inclusion of her sister particularly significant. Ky views Florencia as an extension of herself, which maintains the intimate feel of her practice.
As a big sister, Ky deeply values her role in Florencia's life, finding inspiration in watching her grow and pursue her dreams. This relationship not only fuels her art but also stands as one of her greatest achievements, reinforcing the themes of support and connection that permeate her work.
Laetitia Ky continues to use her platform as an artist and activist to challenge beauty norms and promote self-acceptance, with her sculptural hairstyles serving as a testament to the power of transforming personal struggles into empowering artistic expressions.
