Crown: A Celebration of Black Hair

works by Jordan Allen, Robert Bellinger, and Najee Brown

July 3 - 27 | Reception Friday, July 11th / 5-8pm During Art 'Round Town

Crown: A Celebration of Black Hair is a collaborative effort, presented in partnership with Seacoast African American Cultural Center. Additional works are on display at SAACC and Strawberry Banke. Crown is part of SAACC’s 25th anniversary exhibition.

Crown is a photography exhibit celebrating the beauty, history, and cultural significance of Black hair. Crown is a powerful visual narrative that explores Black hair as a symbol of identity, pride, and self-expression. Featuring photographs capturing the everyday beauty and legacy of Black hair, including images from local barbershops, salons, and elders in the community. This exhibit is an opportunity to engage audiences in meaningful conversations about Black hair as both an art form and a cultural statement.

The exhibit features the work of three photographers:  

• Najee Brown -  The Artistic Director of the Multicultural Arts Center, Najee is a Boston-based photographer with 20 years of experience capturing life through his lens. Born and raised in Brooklyn, Najee’s work is deeply rooted in storytelling, blending authenticity and creativity to celebrate the beauty of Black culture. Through Crown, Najee explores the joy, love, and creativity expressed through Black hair, capturing its magic and its role in shaping the cultural fabric of the world.

• Robert Bellinger - An esteemed educator, historian, and photographer, Robert brings over 40 years of archival photographs that document the evolution and cultural significance of Black hair. His work offers a historical lens on the beauty and resilience of Black hair, showcasing intimate portraits that reflect the pride, struggles, and triumphs of the Black community over decades.

• Jordan Allen - A Brooklyn-born, Los Angeles-based creative multihyphenate, Jordan has built a remarkable career as a photographer, videographer, designer, and curator. His photography journey began at Ohio University, where his passion for storytelling through visuals flourished. With nearly a decade of experience, Jordan has captured some of the most influential cultural figures, including Erykah Badu, Smokey Robinson, and Kyrie Irving, and has worked with global organizations like SiriusXM. His vibrant, contemporary work celebrates the individuality and artistry of Black hair in modern culture.