Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1535749
50 • THE ARTISAN SUMMER 2025 DARK DARK WINDS WINDS B Y K R I S T A P E R R Y D E P A R T M E N T H E A D H A I R W I T H M E L I S S A Y O N K E Y K E Y H A I R ALL ALONG THE HORIZON BRIDGING ERAS: The Art of 1970s Hair and Native American Traditions in Television The art of hair styling in film and television is more than just aesthetics—it's a powerful storytelling tool that brings characters and history to life. When Melissa Yonkey and I had the opportunity to work on Dark Winds Season 3, set in the 1970s, I knew that capturing the essence of the era's hair styles was crucial. However, what made this project particularly special was the inclusion of Native American characters, specifically from the Navajo Nation. This presented a unique challenge: balancing the iconic trends of the decade with the cultural accuracy and traditions of Navajo hair styles. A TALE OF TWO WORLDS: 1970s Trends vs. Native American Tradition The 1970s were a time of self-expression and experimentation in mainstream hair styling. Feathered layers, voluminous curls, Afros, and sleek center-parted styles defined the era. However, for Native American communities, particularly the Navajo, traditional hair styles held deep cultural significance and remained largely unchanged by mainstream fashion trends in rural communities. These styles were not merely aesthetic choices; they carried heritage, symbolism, and personal identity. The juxtaposition of these two distinct hair styling approaches was a fascinating aspect of our design process. While some Native characters in the series adopted elements of 1970s trends, others remained true to their cultural roots, showcasing traditional hair styles such as the Navajo tsiiyééł—a carefully wrapped and tied hair bun worn at the back of the head differing from male to female. Our main character Leaphorn, played by Zahn McClarnon, showcases this style as his main hair style choice while at work. During the season, we see the slow demise of this character through his hair. An important significance to his hair style is that his wife is scripted as doing it for him. It's a culturally intimate moment