Researcher and Artisan/Designer
At Villa Swagatam, I aim to connect my practice with India by linking hair donations from the Tirumala Temple with traditional embroidery at Vastrakala. This project will explore the origins of fibers used in textiles, transforming donated hair into unique fabrics that embody individual stories and spiritual devotion. My goal is to elevate hair from a commodity to a valuable, conceptual material.
Antonin Mongin is a Paris-based PhD designer and textile craftsman. He revitalizes “The Art of Working with Hair,” transforming cut hair from waste into a valuable raw material with symbolic and memorial significance. His work includes creating bespoke textile materials and objects. He also incorporates unique fibers like synthetic hair, horsehair, sisal, raffia, and French plant fibers to produce handcrafted, plant-based faux furs for luxury fashion and home decor.