Kitchen explores the relationship between hair and intimacy while centering the experiences of Black clientele and stylists/barbers. The film and exhibit celebrates stories told by Black voices to archive the oral histories surrounding the physical space, care and intimacy that is cultivated through hair styling and how it originated in the Kitchen.

This exhibit adopts a poetic storytelling approach by delving into the perspectives of both the

clients and stylists/barbers, all the while acknowledging the historical and political context that envelops this particular experience. Highlighted are Oregon's longest running Black-owned business and hair salon and barbershop, Deans Beauty Salon, as well as Natural Hair and Extensions, the first natural hair salon in the Pearl District.

Kiara Walls is a Social Practice Artist, Facilitator and former Dean residing in Portland, Oregon. She holds a Bachelors of Art in Graphic Design from California State University of Northridge and a Masters of Fine Arts in Art and Social Practice from Portland State University. Walls' work explores the layers of Black sovereignty through creating conversations, film, and site-specific installations. Her practice often involves community engagement and collaboration, inviting participants to join in the creation of the work. Walls seeks to engage in dialogue and reflection on themes related to trauma, identity, healing and intimacy. In her project, “The Black Box Experience Series”, Walls’ invites audiences to join the conversation around “What would reparations look like today?” through stepping into an experience other than their own. Walls has completed residencies at Otis College of Art and Design in Los Angeles, California, and Sunset Art Studios in Dallas,Texas. She was awarded the Portland Institute for Contemporary Art Precipice Grant and Regional Arts and Regional Arts and Culture Council Arts 3C Grant for her collaborative project “Kitchen”, which explores the relationship between hair and intimacy while centering the experiences of Black clientele and natural hair practitioners.

Paola De La Cruz is a queer Black Latina illustrator, muralist and social engaged artist. Paola interweaves digital and analog media, patterns, stitching and shape-based illustrations to evoke intimacy while challenging the themes of cultural identity, coming of age, and interpersonal growth.

Mason Biggers is a creative focused in intentional storytelling through photography. His work combines portraiture with a street style to document the everyday experiences of black culture. As a self-taught photographer, the under-produced style evokes a sense of relatability to his audience that feels more like a scrap book rather than an editorial magazine.

Natural Hair and Extensions where hair is their passion, and their passion shows on every client that walks out of their doors. Through ongoing education, NHE stylists stay up to date on the latest natural hair, textures, tri-cology, braids, locs, hair cuts, color, barbering, hair extensions, weave installs, and up do styles and techniques to bring you the healthiest look you desire. Tisha, NHE salon owner, is Professional Natural Hair Stylist, Business Development Specialist, Instructor, and Hicks Educator and Distributor. Miranda is a Professional Natural Hair Stylist that has been doing hair since she was 7 years old. She has a genuine intent of pleasing her clients and making an impact of change in the hair community. Conor is a Professional Hairstylist and a Barber. He has over 10 years experience in the industry. Come and allow him the opportunity to build your confidence with his blessed hands.

Dean's Salon and Barber Shop boasts over 55 years of experience with being Oregon’s oldest African American hair salon since 1956. No matter what type of hair you have, we can accommodate you. Our specialists can do men's cuts, women's cuts, natural hair, or any other hair texture. We want to ensure that your hair looks exactly how you imagined.While our stylists are some of Portland's best, our work is guaranteed. We're third-generation stylists. Each stylist at Dean's Salon and Barber Shop has a specific expertise to best serve your needs. Owner and stylist Kim Brown specializes in relaxers, pressing, and curls. Stylist Sylvia Jackson-Riley specializes in braids, extensions, and weaves. Stylist Pearl Hall specializes in precision hair cutting, straight razor shaves and barbering.