Whitney VerMeer - Hairbrained Awards
In the realm where artistry meets innovation, where hair is not just a canvas but a statement, we are on the brink of celebrating the dazzling spectacle that is the Hairbrained Awards. Currently, our spotlight shines on a pioneer, an industry disruptor, and a true Hair Nerd – Whitney VerMeer.
Internationally acclaimed and multi-award-winning, Whitney has sculpted a path that defies convention, transcending the boundaries of hairstyling as we know it. With a skill set honed through a fusion of traditional techniques and boundless creativity, she has etched her name in the annals of hairstyling history. As we get closer to the event, get ready to witness (and attend) not just an awards show, but a testament to the limitless possibilities of artistry.
Could you share a memorable moment or highlight from your journey with the Hairbrained Awards that has stayed with you over the years?
My favorite and most memorable moment with the HBA’s was winning Cut Video of the Year and Video of the Year with the talented team of Beauty Underground! It was such a fun night and I was proud to stand next to Charlie Price, Katie Renshaw Nielsen, and Tiaja Pierre on stage while we accepted the honor!
The Hairbrained community is known for its creativity and innovation. How do you think being a part of this community has helped you push the boundaries of your craft?
Certainly! Without a doubt, Hairbrained stands out as a genuine celebration of our industry, creating a unique space for artists who passionately immerse themselves in the intricacies of their craft and everything related to hair.
Throughout my professional journey, I have encountered environments where my deep love for our craft distinguished me, fueling my ambition to explore different aspects, from education to editorial endeavors. For me, this profession goes beyond just a job; it is a profound calling. In situations where colleagues conform to the conventional norms, the salon can sometimes feel isolating when one's passion exceeds the ordinary.
While many people in our industry enjoy working with hair, not everyone is fully absorbed in it. I must admit that there are moments when I contemplate adopting a more detached approach. However, deep inside, I would never trade this connection for anything else. Even if luck favored me today, I would still continue cutting hair because it is an essential part of my identity, and the idea of abandoning it is unimaginable.
As artists, we possess an inherent sensitivity towards our work, often grappling with internal insecurities. The questions persist: Is our work sufficient? Are we sufficient? Do we truly belong? At any Hairbrained event I have worked at or even attended, I always have felt “seen” and a part of something really special. It’s important to surround ourself with likeminded individuals that encourage your passions and with Hairbrained, I have always felt like I was in good company.
Can you describe your creative process when working on a Hairbrained Awards submission? What inspires your unique concepts and designs?
My inspiration comes from anything and everything. Cinematography, Music, Art, Architecture, anything that grabs me. I don’t think inspiration is as obvious as setting an intention to be inspired, but rather being open to it at all times and to let whatever is supposed to interact with you and touch you, do so.
My recent submission, NEOHUMAN, was inspired by a combination Ex Machina and Ready Player One with a futuristic video game undertone. All of the visuals on the model are projected onto him rather than doing them in post production. I thought it was most important to be able to fully immerse ourselves into the concept as a team and let things unfold naturally.
What are your thoughts on the impact of social media and digital platforms in shaping the careers of today's hairdressers and artists?
I love it! I think it has helped build so much more of a cohesive community for our industry. It’s provided a platform for individuals who have interest in teaching to not have to play into the corporate gate keeping and share hair because they are passionate about it vs on the connections they have made to have the opportunity. Of course that also means the market is more saturated, but I do believe every artist regardless of their tenure in our industry has something of value to share regardless if it is technique or a story about how they handled a difficult client.
What role do you see Hairbrained and similar platforms playing in the future of the beauty and hairstyling industry?
I see platforms like this continuing to grow and to house a unique subset of artists who genuinely love to nerd out on all things hair related. The love and passion for our craft is contagious and when people like this get together, our industry grows and multiplies.
How can people find out more about you?
Through instagram! @whitneyvermeer
Join us in celebrating the artistry of hairstyling at Hairbrained, where creativity knows no bounds. To learn more, visit www.hairbrained.me and become a part of the #crafthairdresser community.
