Do-rag (‘du,?ræg

Following on from his 2021 exhibition Hooyo which celebrated headscarves, Rami Hara presents his latest project to date; Do-rag (‘du,?ræg. For this body of work, the artist’s focal point is the durag, a piece of cloth (or wave cap) that is used as a tool for self-care and as a cultural emblem.

The durag has been around for centuries, the term originating in the United States but appearing all over the African Diaspora. Its primary function has always been self-care. Gradually, it has also taken on an important role as a cultural symbol and as a fashion accessory. Like many other representations of black culture, it has been subjected to prejudice. The durag is often associated with gang violence and crime, and more specifically with the way black men have been perceived negatively throughout history. This discrimination was the starting point for Rami Hara, whose aim with this series is to bring attention to the sheer beauty of the durag and its culture. Often inspired by fashion photography, their bright colours and uncluttered environments, this series carries a softness that contrasts with the negative perception of durags and the people who wear them, forcing the viewers to question their own biases. Do-rag (‘du,?ræg is a way for Rami Hara to highlight the everyday simplicity and delicacy of the object, and to reclaim these harmful narratives.