Victorian Hair Work Workshop with artist & researcher Donna Lowson

Victorian Hair Work Workshop with artist & researcher Donna Lowson

-19th April, 17th May 

-11am to 1pm
-The Assembly Room
-2 hours session
-Max 10 participants 
 
 Step into a unique creative experience that bridges Victorian craft, material history, and contemporary art. Join artist and practice-led researcher Donna Lowson for a hands-on Victorian hair art workshop, where you’ll learn to create delicate floral forms inspired by a historical tradition rich with meaning. Donna works with hair as both material and metaphor, transforming what is often discarded into tactile, thoughtful art. 

Using human hair sourced from salon waste—alongside synthetic hair for anyone who prefers not to work with biological material—she explores identity, memory, material afterlives, and the stories we overlook. Her practice revives the forgotten craft of Victorian hairwork while inviting new interpretations that connect past and present in surprising ways.
What to Expect

  • Warm welcome & introduction
    Meet Donna, hear about her artistic journey from hairdresser to conceptual artist, and learn about the social and cultural significance of Victorian hair art.
  • Historical insights & examples
    Discover original Victorian hair art and contemporary interpretations, exploring how materials carry meaning across time.
  • Materials overview & demonstration
    Get familiar with tools and techniques and watch a live demonstration of key methods.
  • Hands-on creation
    Craft your own hair flowers with guided support. Donna will circulate to offer tips and encourage individual expression.

Practical Info

  • Materials provided (including synthetic hair options)
  • Limited to 10 participants for an intimate, hands-on experience
  • Ages 16 + for the workshop
Whether you’re curious about craft, history, materiality, or art, this workshop offers a rare opportunity to engage creatively with a tradition that links personal sentiment and collective memory.

Friends of BCHT enjoy discounts on selected event tickets.

Buxton Crescent is accessible by wheelchair and fitted with accessible lift and toilet facilities.

The Pump Room is one-level Assistance dogs are welcome in Buxton Crescent and the Pump Room.

We also have a hearing loop in The Pump Room. 

Buxton Crescent Heritage Trust welcomes all to our attractions and events. Those that require the assistance of an essential carer to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit may ask for a complimentary essential carers ticket for their companion. These are available to anyone with an Access Card or anyone in receipt of the higher rate of Personal Independence Payments (PIP), Attendance Allowance (AA) or Disability Living Allowance (DLA).
Essential Carers tickets can be purchased alongside a standard ticket from the Pump Room, on the phone (01298 214577) or on the ticketing section of our website for events and the Buxton Crescent Experience.

The Pump Room is fitted with an accessible toilet.

Buxton Crescent has male, female and accessible toilets.

The Pavilion Gardens have public toilet facilities, just 5 minutes walk away.

Dogs are very welcome in the Pump Room and we always have complimentary dog treats at the Visitor Information desk.

Assistance dogs are allowed in the Buxton Crescent Experience and in the Assembly Rooms.

A variety of hot, cold and alcoholic drinks are usually available during events in the Pump Room.

Featured

Keep in touch

Keep up to date with all our latest news and events by subscribing to our monthly newsletter. Don’t miss out!

Comments are closed.

Our visitor experience...

tells the stories of Buxton, The Crescent, its famous water and the many people who came to seek its cure. Click here to read more.

Our Premium Guided Tours set off in the morning, where you can dive deep into the rich history of our area aided by our warm and wonderful hosts.

For those who prefer to discover at their own pace, the Experience opens to Self-Guided visitors at 1pm.

Large group? Or a sensory tour during quiet times? Please contact us and we can help get that arranged.