Beehives Bobs and Blow-dries worldwide exhibition debuts in Barnsley

An exhibition dedicated to the history of hairdressing and the design of hairstyling is set to tour the world and will make its international debut in Yorkshire in February 2018.

The Civic in Barnsley, is delighted to announce that it is to become the first venue for people to view this fantastic, interactive and sensory exhibition created by renowned celebrity hairdresser Andrew Barton in partnership with Donna Bevan, co-curator and fashion research consultant, and the curator of the Civic and now curator of visual arts for the Hull UK City of Culture 2017, David Sinclair.

Through this unique collaboration the exhibition will integrate the key innovations in the hair industry, salon environments, technological breakthroughs and the influence of popular culture.

“Hair is often the forgotten link when it comes to charting cultural changes in fashion and I have been thinking about how it could be recognised and globally appreciated for all it’s worth for a number of years. In this hair focused exhibition we have decided to turn fashion on it’s head. ”
Says Andrew.

“I am thrilled that we have been able to create a partnership with Andrew on this subject. The exhibition takes visitors on a fascinating hair journey throughout the gallery space, bringing to life how hair fashion as been shaped by revolutionary techniques and innovations all related to hair.”
Says David.

Entitled "Beehives Bobs and Blow-dries”. This multimedia exhibition celebrates the creation of iconic hairstyles and showcases hair artistry. While also charting the cultural and economic shifts which have influenced significant hair styles since the 1950s onwards and the hairdressing salon being the pillar of the community.

Using archival material, trends and influences are explored and the advancement of hairdressing charted along with the importance of hairdressers in a community and the meaning of hair as a form of self expression.

Charting the advancements in design, evolution and technology the exhibition celebrates all things hair and gazes into the salon, its creativity and its future.

Spearheaded by celebrity hairdresser Andrew Barton who was born and bred in Barnsley, and a patron of Yorkshire. This exhibition is a celebration of his outstanding contribution to the global hairdressing industry over 3 decades, winning numerous awards, mentoring talent and flying the British hairdressing flag around the world. Showcasing his iconic styles through a gallery of his back catalogue of imagery and iconic status as a celebrity hairdresser.

In celebration of the exhibition opening, the Civic is planning a dedicated fundraising dinner to support The Princes Trust charity of which Andrew is one of their Celebrity Ambassadors along with various local initiatives.

Beehives Bobs and Blow-dries is at The Civic from 17 February to 7 April 2018.