Khamit Kinks Newsletter December 2008
 Greetings!

As 2008 draws to a close, we witness the historic ascension of a Black family to the White House. While this is inspiring on many levels and celebrates the contributions made by those who fought for our people, there is also a minor aspect that amazes us here at Khamit Kinks. Who'd have thought we'd see little girls in cornrows playing on the White Ho use lawn? While First Daughters Malia and Sasha are often
seen with their hair pressed, there have also been a few photos of them with cornrows, 2 strand twists, and afro puffs. L ittle Black girls across the country will hold their heads higher on seeing the Obama girls romping around the White House, reflecting for all the natural beauty that is ours. Amidst these challenging times of war and ec onomic crises, this is a victory to savor.

In this spirit, we hope you'll enjoy a few Khamit Kinks photos from the recent hair show celebrating Mireille Liong's recent "Going Natural" photo exhibition. We think you'll also be inspired by the example of actor Tracie Thoms, who has enjoyed a healthy career while maintaining her natural look. I also remember and salute a former client, the late, great Miriam Makeba!


 

 
Client Profile:
Traci Thoms

Actor Tracie Thoms is one of those people whose names you may not instantly recognize, but take one look at her picture and you'll likely say, "Oh, I know that sister!" That's because she's done a good amount of film and loads of TV, and also because she's so adept at inhabiting a character that she feels like someone we know.

Tracie plays Detective Kat Miller on CBS' "Cold Case," where she's done
(read more)
Quick Links
Going Natural

Last weekend Khamit Kinks had the privilege of participating in a natural hair show produced by Mireille Liong of "Going Natural."  Ms. Liong is a native of Suriname who relocated to the New York area from Holland. Mireille's passion for natural hair is irrepressible and she was fascinated by the numbers of women walking around our city with natural hair (unprocessed and without the enhancement of extensions). 

Going Natural

Mireille is also a photographer and began documenting these styles when frequenting the many cultural events around town such as the Brooklyn Academy of Music's Dance Africa Festival, The International African Arts Festival, and Harlem Week.  She has amassed over one thousand images of women with natural hair and was showing her beautiful images in Harlem at the Casa Frela Gallery.  She topped the exhibit off with a natural hair show.

Khamit Kinks was one of five salons that participated in the show and it was a delight to reach back into the creativity of working with naked hair.


We'd like to thank our beautiful models Michelle Brooks, Wendi Williams, and Kemi Awopetu.  Michelle's hair is Micro Two Strand Twist with a twist out in the top, executed by Fatumata.  Wendi William's hair was done in the vintage style of Coils, executed by Anu in the front and Awa and Sesh in the back.  Kemi's hair is cornrows with a waterfall of twists, cascading to one side, executed by Awa.  And as always, thanks to Taeisha for manuvering  the scheduling to make this happen.

Also thanks to the fabulous Cassandra Bromfield for loaning her exquisite wedding designs to us and to the multi-talented Patricia Warrington for stepping in as wardrobe mistress. Tell us your Going Natural story at Ask Anu

 Click here to see the Side Show
Miriam Makeba

As many of you are already aware, last month our beloved sister Miriam Makeba made her transition.  Miriam, a native of South Africa was a singer and activist and one of the first to show African Americans the beauty of wearing naturals and braided hairstyles. 

I had the privilege of meeting Ms. Makeba and braiding her hair on several occasions back in the early 80's.  At the time, I hadn't come up with the  name Khamit Kinks.  Back then my home based business was called "Royal Traditions in Braiding by Prestonia." This was before I began documenting my work by taking photos in earnest so unfortunately, I have no pictures of the creations I did on Ms. Makeba.  She was a good friend of my then landlord Judy Dearing (the legendary costume designer). Judy had traveled the world with Miriam as her dress designer and wardrobe mistress.  I'll always remember Miriam's sweet voice, gracious manners and her wit.  She is an icon and will never be forgotten.

We also just lost another great lady, folksinger/songwriter and activist Odetta. She was also an early role model for women choosing to "go natural." Although she sometimes wore elegant cornrows, Odetta was known best for her simple and stunning short Afro, which she wore with pride. We owe a debt of gratitude to both of these great, outspoken, and naturally beautiful musical artists.
 
Open Monday December 29th!

As you all know we are typically closed on Mondays.  However, this year we will be open the Monday before New Year's Eve to accommodate all those who need to see us before the New Year rolls in.  Call to make your appointment today: 718.422.2600
 
Hip Holiday Greetings, Invitations & Gifts

Cowriecards_christmas_cherubes
In need of a quick holiday greeting to your best friend, co-worker, cousin, or client? Well, give CowrieCards.com a try. It's also a great spot for handy online invitations and announcements for your New Year's party or Kwanzaa feast.Try its one-stop gift shop, for holiday shopping right at your fingertips.
 
Many Thanks!

I can not begin to tell you how touched I was by the many clients who responded so graciously to our Thanksgiving Greeting.  You brought tears to my eyes and warmed my heart. 

Have a great Holiday season
and a
Fabulous New Year!
 
Khamit Kinks
327 Gold Street
Brooklyn, New York 11201

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