Hi, I'm Zen Hansen, founder of Hair Anthropology. I explore the profound significance of hair as a sustainable fiber resource and its historical role beyond its conventional use in wigs.
My work delves into the ways humans have utilized this remarkable material throughout history, examining the cultural forces that determine whether hair is seen as trash or treasure.
Through meticulous research and storytelling, I aim to challenge perceptions, illuminating hair's value as a natural (and sentimental) resource while celebrating its potential to inspire sustainable practices in the modern world.
As a hair artist, I've dedicated the last several years to mastering the nearly forgotten art of weaving delicate strands of human hair into intricate jewelry. This journey has been deeply inspired by the sentimental and mourning traditions of the 18th and 19th centuries, where hair was cherished as a material that preserved love and memory.
Learning this craft has presented unique challenges—scarce instructions and limited tools required ingenuity and persistence. In response, I've developed modern tools, techniques, and tutorials to support anyone eager to explore this historic and meaningful art form.
My mission is to honor and reintroduce the beauty and emotion encapsulated within hairwork while making it accessible for contemporary makers. Whether through creating bespoke pieces, researching historical practices, or teaching new methods, I strive to bridge the past and the present, keeping the rich legacy of hairwork alive.
Much more is on the horizon in 2025—stay tuned!
Hairwork Commissions are currently OPEN - fill out the contact form.
For behind-the-scenes content, follow me on Instagram.
If you’d like to discuss hosting a workshop in your city, a lecture, or for any other inquiries please contact me: zen (at) hairanthropology.com