I cut my hair every 4 years, on the same day (night), August 31st, harvesting it for my Braid Collection.

First it was a symbolic haircut in 1984 before moving from Kharkov (Ukraine) to Moscow, starting new “moscow time”. Date of that haircut coincidently fell on the date when influential Russian poet Marina Tsvetaeva committed suicide in 1942.

Braid #1. 1984-1988, Made in Russia. It was cut in front of a wardrobe mirror, at home.

Braid #2. 1988-1992, Made in Russia. First public performance in Moscow before departure to USA.

Braid #3. 1992-1996, Made in USA. Performance at the Cleveland International Performance Festival.

Braid #4. 1996-2000, Made in USA. Shaved on a trip from the Bronx to the East Village, while driving.

Braid #5. 2000-2004, Cut in Ukraine. “20 Years After” Performance at Palitra Gallery, Kharkov, Ukraine

Braid #6. 2004-2008, Cut in Tribeca. Performance at The Tank in NYC.

While each performance was created differently, some parts, developed at different times, became traditions. The last performance included a live video mix of documentations from previous shavings.

This project is dedicated to all women who have lost their hair against their will.