HairStories explores the history, style, and meaning of black hair as seen through the eyes of three generations of African American artists. Showcasing more than 60 works by 27 artists, it spans nearly a century of visual art, pop culture, music, and literature, considering hair as a reflection of history, identity, and race relations in America, from the days of segregation to today.

Historical works by artist Jacob Lawrence andphotographer James VanDerZee provide a chronological introduction, followed by key works by internationally recognized contemporary artists such as David Hammons, Alison Saar, and Lorna Simpson, and recent works by pivotal emerging artists including Mark Bradford and Kori Newkirk. Essays consider the syndrome of "good hair" versus "bad hair;" the importance of the barbershop and beauty salon as a center of the African American community; the social and political symbolism of hairstyles; and hair as an expression of individuality.