July 12, 2025

Reviving Hairwork: A Unique Art Form in Charleston

News Summary

Local artist Gina Iacovelli is bringing back the traditional craft of hairwork through her business, Mementos Entwined. By creating intricate jewelry from hair and pet fur, Iacovelli allows her clients to keep their cherished memories alive. Her work is currently showcased in the ‘Reimagine Fashion Exhibition’ at the Charleston Museum, highlighting the sentimental and artistic value of this Victorian tradition. Through this craft, Iacovelli connects clients with their loved ones in a meaningful way, ushering an appreciation for a historical art form that has found renewed significance.

Charleston – A traditional craft known as hairwork is making a comeback thanks to local artist Gina Iacovelli and her business, Mementos Entwined. Based in Charleston, Iacovelli specializes in creating unique jewelry pieces from hair, offering customers a way to keep cherished memories alive through necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings that incorporate both human hair and pet fur. Her craftsmanship is currently on display in the “Reimagine Fashion Exhibition” at the Charleston Museum, which will continue to showcase her work until the end of the year.

Iacovelli’s approach to hairwork is rooted in a Victorian tradition that dates back to the 1800s, where individuals crafted keepsakes from the hair of loved ones—both those who have passed away and those still living. Such intricate pieces served as a means for Victorians to retain connections with treasured individuals and commemorate lasting memories. Iacovelli’s fascination with hairwork was sparked by seeing a museum display that showcased this historic craft. Although initially finding the concept unappealing, her interest eventually transformed into an appreciation for its sentimental value and artistry.

In order to master the techniques required for hairwork, Iacovelli took a self-trained approach after discovering an instructional manual from 1867. She practiced using wigs and her own hair to develop her skills, which culminated in the creation of a specially-designed workstation within her home studio in James Island. The braiding table is crafted from a plant stand, reflecting her dedication to perfecting the intricate process of turning strands of hair into beautiful meaningful jewelry.

The crafting process involves considerable material; for instance, a six-inch bracelet requires about 18 inches of hair, essentially tripling the initial length due to the braiding method used. Committed to her craft, Iacovelli has taken part in the wider conversation surrounding death and memory through her involvement in the death-positive movement, which encourages open discussions about mortality. She has attended various “death cafés,” connecting with like-minded individuals who share insights about the end of life.

In addition to her personal exploration, Iacovelli has found community among a small group of contemporary hairworkers based throughout the U.S. This network fosters the sharing of techniques and collaboration, solidifying the revival of this lost art form. Clients commissioning hairwork pieces experience a profoundly personal journey, with creation times ranging from two to four months and starting prices at $700. For many, the process of commissioning a piece is intertwined with their own grieving, allowing them to honor their connections meaningfully.

Client stories highlight the emotional significance of Iacovelli’s work. For example, one client, Karina Kelley, created a pendant made from her late grandmother’s hair, while another, Alexandria Basso, fashioned pieces from the fur of her deceased pet morkie. These narratives reflect the deep, emotional ties that clients have with the pieces, underscoring their purpose beyond mere adornments. Basso, in particular, appreciates Iacovelli’s craft as a revival of an art form that embodies both memory and love.

Ultimately, Iacovelli’s creations enable clients to carry their loved ones with them rather than simply storing keepsakes away. By reviving the Victorian hairwork tradition, she offers a unique and personal way for people to connect with their memories, transforming hair into a lasting symbol of love and remembrance. The ongoing exhibit at the Charleston Museum serves not only as a showcase of her work but also as a celebration of a historical craft that has found renewed significance in contemporary society.

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Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON

The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.