"Natural Movement": Unapologetic Conversations of Hair and Nonconformity

The Delaware Contemporary is accepting submissions for a group exhibition based around the central ideas of "Hair and the CROWN Act." The CROWN Act, which stands for "Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair," is a law that prohibits race-based hair discrimination; namely the denial of employment, recreational, and educational opportunities because of hair texture or protective hairstyles including braids, locs, twists, or bantu knots.

For decades men and women of color have conformed to European societal standards, both culturally and institutionally in regards to their identity, and more specifically, by altering the natural growth of hair. People of color have been subjected to processing their hair with chemicals, straightening, and weaving their natural hair to conform to societal standards for acceptance, employment, and conformity in schools and the workplace. The exhibition asks how contemporary artists together with museums can progress this dialogue around hair, identity, and nonconformity.

Entry fee is $25.00. Submissions must include 2-5 images. Eligibility is regional (Delaware). The entry deadline is February 15, 2021 at 11:59 p.m. MST. For questions, contact [email protected].