Exploring the Art of Hair: An Interview with Camille Marcolini-Mésenge of Capelli

Captivating Capelli: The Instagram Archive Celebrating the Art of Hair

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In a digital landscape overflowing with fleeting trends, one Instagram account stands out as a mesmerizing archive of hair artistry. Capelli, curated by Camille Marcolini-Mésenge, has become a haven for those enchanted by the beauty and complexity of hairstyles, showcasing everything from intricate braids to cascading curls.

Launched in 2019, Capelli emerged from Marcolini-Mésenge’s lifelong fascination with hair, a passion ignited by her grandmother’s meticulously styled locks. “It was the first ritual I ever witnessed,” she recalls, describing her grandmother’s hair as a “blonde, motionless halo” adorned with antique combs. This early exposure shaped Marcolini-Mésenge’s understanding of hair as “emotional cartography,” a medium that connects generations and transcends cultural boundaries.

A Community of Hair Enthusiasts

Capelli is not just a personal project; it has evolved into a vibrant community. Nearly 40% of the images shared on the account come from submissions, reflecting a collective appreciation for hair’s storytelling power. “I feel privileged to share them,” Marcolini-Mésenge says, emphasizing the emotional narratives behind each photograph.

The name “Capelli,” meaning “hair” in Italian, resonates with Marcolini-Mésenge’s multicultural background. “It speaks to the many strands, the many people, and the many stories hair carries,” she explains, highlighting the plural nature of the word.

The Allure of Long Hair

While Capelli features a diverse array of hairstyles, long hair often captures the most attention. Marcolini-Mésenge believes this fascination stems from the way long hair embodies time and care. “Long hair resists the instant,” she notes. “It demands patience, persistence, and care, becoming a living record of time.”

One of her favorite submissions—a braid transformed into a bag accessory—epitomizes this sentiment. The braid, cut on a whim, was given to a best friend who understood its significance, turning it into a cherished keepsake. “Hair doesn’t decay, so it’s always been used as a kind of living relic,” she reflects, emphasizing the emotional weight carried by such gestures.

Hair as a Bonding Agent

Marcolini-Mésenge also highlights the social aspect of hair. “It’s brushed by grandmothers, braided by friends, and cut by strangers,” she explains. The intimacy of hair care fosters connections that words often cannot convey. Many of Capelli’s posts feature pairs of individuals, showcasing how hair can intertwine lives and stories.

Inspirations and Aspirations

When asked about her ultimate hair inspiration, Marcolini-Mésenge cites the archive itself. “The beauty is in its multiplicity,” she says, appreciating the dialogue between various styles and cultures. Although she is not one for trends, she admits a nostalgic longing for the bold hairstyles of the 70s and 80s, favoring “more architecture, less replication.”

As for unforgettable hairstyles, she is continually inspired by the work of Mustafa Yanaz, whose sculptural approach to hair styling transforms it into a form of art.

A Living Archive

Capelli is more than just an Instagram account; it is a living archive that celebrates the artistry of hair and the connections it fosters. As Marcolini-Mésenge continues to curate this captivating collection, she invites everyone to explore the stories woven into each strand, reminding us that hair is not just a style—it’s a shared language that binds us all.

For those looking to dive into this enchanting world, Capelli awaits, ready to inspire and connect through the timeless beauty of hair.