I do think it is an issue only because for some it can be a source of unconscious self-hate. Learning to love the hair you are born with is a journey that I think we should all take at one point or another as it helps you accept yourself.
Photos from Body Studios
Name: Norman Mayers
Occupation: Journalist/Event Promoter
Who is your Favorite model?
I have always loved Alek Wek for her uncommon looks.
What is your favorite book?
The Celestine Prophecy
What is your favorite movie?
Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho. I have always been a fan of horror and suspense films and Hitchcock was the master. Who didn’t get scared from that shower scene? And there is a guy named Norman in it.
Why did you become a model and what is your goal as a model?
I have always been a creative type and modeling seemed to be a way to express myself in unusual and creative ways. I want to be able to do as many unique projects as possible and I am gradually working my way into doing more music videos, commercials, and television. There are no limits for me really.
How important is your hair as a model? Why do you choose to wear your hair the way you do?
Its become pretty important since I tend to get booked a lot for my hair and for the drama it can create on camera. It wasn’t my intention for this to happen. I just wear it this way because it makes me happy.
Photos from Mark Gebjardt
What does your hair mean to you? Is it just an accessory that compliments your personality and style or is it deeper than that?
There was no huge religious reason for me growing my hair. I honestly just wanted to grow it out since I had always had a very conservative look my whole life. I didn’t even intend it to be dreads. My goal was just to let it grow and see where it went. But I did always make a point to take care of it and be involved with it.
Does a weave, relaxed hair or a natural head bother you or do you have a preference for either of these styles?
While I do like it when women wear natural hairstyles and prefer the way it looks over a weave, ultimately it is just about style for me. Hair should be effortless like style and its more about how each woman carries herself whether its with a natural hairstyle, a weave, or relaxed.
Is the texture of a woman’s hair important to you? And length?
I do like natural hair texture but the length doesn’t matter. Sex appeal, style and confidence are much more important.
Do you think black hair is an issue? Why or why not?
I do think it is an issue only because for some it can be a source of unconscious self-hate. Learning to love the hair you are born with is a journey that I think we should all take at one point or another as it helps you accept yourself. While I don’t see anything wrong with straightening hair to create a certain look I don’t agree with it being done to children at such a young age. The acceptance of black hair is part of a larger issue within the black community to come to peace with who we really are.
Last Word?
Just to be happy and nappy!
More from Norman: www.nomadicnorman.blogspot.com
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