Intricate Nigerian Afro Hairstyles: Photos from the 1960s and 1970s (21 Photos)

JD Ojai Ojeikere is recognized as the greatest African photographer of the 20th century. He gained international recognition for his Hair Series, a personal project documenting unique Nigerian hairstyles. The project began in 1968 and over 40 years has grown to 1,000 photographs.

Ojeikere elevates hair design from fashion to a fine art form, celebrating its intricate patterns, sculptural qualities and abstraction. Unlike the many complex hairstyles on display, Ojeikere's photography uses a consistent and restrained visual language.

Some of these hairstyles are showcased at social events or celebrations such as weddings or birthdays, while others are worn regularly. Hairstyles can reflect social status, and royalty can have unique family hairstyles that are passed down from generation to generation. Ojeikere believed that these intricate hairstyles celebrated uniqueness and reflected Nigeria's diverse cultural traditions.

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