Art History - The Caryatid Project
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The Caryatid Hairstyling Project at Fairfield University in April 2009 tested the
possibility of replicating the hairstyles and braiding techniques of the marble
Caryatids
(or maidens) from the South Porch of the Erechtheion on the Athenian
Acropolis. 6 students (5 art history majors and 1 psychology major) were selected
for the project on the basis of the length and thickness of their hair. They participated
out of curiosity, then after the hairstyling, became enthralled by the direct connection
they felt to the ancient Athenian culture.

"Participating in The Caryatid Hairstyling Project really made me understand
that there was a group of people actually alive at that time period. It no longer
seemed like some point in ancient history."
- Amber Nowak '12 (Kore C)

Often hairstyles in ancient Greek art are elaborate and appear decorative. However,
professional hairstylists today can readily recognize the technical virtuosity within
these ancient designs. The Caryatids are individually referred to as Kore A - F
(Kore is Greek for "maiden"). The elaborate hairstyles reflect a visual symbol connecting
these maidens to the larger Athenian community. It is this connection that traveled through the ages to our current Fairfield students as they participated in this unique proect.

Kore A - Sandra Cimino '09

Image: Kore Image: Kore Image: Kore

Kore B - Dana Westrup '10

Image: Kore Image: Kore Image: Kore

Kore C - Amber Nowak '12

Image: Kore Image: Kore Image: Kore

Kore D - Mara Giarratana Young '11

Image: Kore Image: Korea Image: Kore

Kore E - Caitlin Parker '11

Image: Kore Image: Kore Image: Kore

Kore F - Shannon Berger '11

Image: Kore Image: Kore Image: Kore


Related Information

The Caryatid Hairstyling Project | Caryatid Resources