Through intricate braiding patterns, bold sculptural forms, and innovative design, I celebrate the rich history of Haitian culture, where hair has long served as a symbol of resistance, community, and self-expression.
Kayra Theodore’s creative hairstyles are a powerful expression of cultural identity and resilience, deeply aligned with the vision of Nou Ayiti—a reimagined Haiti that honors its roots while boldly looking toward the future. Through intricate braiding patterns, bold sculptural forms, and innovative design, Kayra celebrates the rich history of Haitian culture, where hair has long served as a symbol of resistance, community, and self-expression.
Her great-grandfather, the late Normil Charles, was a sculptor and one of the first documented artists in Haiti. By honoring her ancestral lineage, Kayra carves a new path for contemporary beauty standards—fusing heritage with forward-thinking artistry. This synthesis reflects a vision of Haiti that embraces cultural pride, creativity, and empowerment. In this way, her hairstyles transcend aesthetic form—they become living statements of identity, hope, and possibility for the future of Ayiti.
Kayra Theodore is a New York-based artist whose work explores the possibilities of Afrofuturistic hairstyles as sculptural and narrative forms. With a background in biology from Queens College, THEODORE transitioned into creative practice to more deeply explore themes of identity, culture, and imagination.
Drawing inspiration from African and Black culture, nature, geometry, and the surreal, Theodore’s work merges hair artistry, modeling, and writing into a distinctive visual language. Her sculptural hairstyles have been featured in runway shows, brand campaigns, and digital exhibitions, gaining recognition from Essence Magazine, AfroPunk, CultureCon, Pattern Beauty, Danessa Myricks, and artists such as Rihanna, Beyoncé, and Erykah Badu.
Theodore’s practice continues to evolve, engaging with both personal and collective narratives, and offering powerful reflections on the undefinable beauty and cultural significance of textured hair.