The Black Hair Experience is the new beauty space for women
(L to R) Elizabeth Austin-Davis and Alisha Brooks (Photo courtesy of Mariah Oates)
In an era when Black women embrace a variety of hairstyles and express themselves through their crowning glory, two friends who started with just an idea and a dream have created an interactive exhibit that focuses on the Black hair experience. From interactive photo booths and beauty supply store vibes, Alisha Brooks and Elizabeth Austin-Davis have created a world, The Black Hair Experience, dedicated to celebrating Black hair culture.
As of May 2021, The Black Hair Experience has expanded from Atlanta to Washington D.C. The 20,000 square foot exhibit has been a beacon of light to women as they enter a space that celebrates their traditions when it comes to Black hair. The creators of the modern-day Black beauty playground spoke about their journey as business partners, the importance of spreading joy and more.
Updated 6 hours ago
NBC Universal, Inc.
An experiential pop-up museum dedicated to celebrating Black women, culture and hair is coming to National Harbor.
The Black Hair Experience opening Saturday features more than 25 installations, including an ode to the decades of Black hair. Download our NBC Washington app for iOS or Android to get alerts for local breaking news and weather.
There’s also a ball pit filled with hair rollers and a hair oil lab where visitors can pick up a bottle that suits their needs.
Co-founders Alisha Brooks and Elizabeth Austin Davis want the pop-up museum to be a spot that promotes confidence.
By Naomi Fisher
Over the weekend I was taken back to my childhood in more ways than one. Reminiscing about being excited to get up for Sunday school with my fresh silk and wrap . The countless stories I would hear from sitting in the beauty salon all day on Saturday with my mother and sisters, and how going to the salon felt like visiting extended family. Thanks to Elizabeth Davis from Cleveland and Alisha Brooks from Kansas City for creating The Black Hair Experience located in Atlanta, Ga and soon to make its way to DC and many other major cities in different states!