Kim's Loc Story: A Journey of Self-Discovery and Strength
As part of my upcoming exhibition BAD Hair Uprooted, I ask people about their choice to wear locs. Despite locs being the most natural way to grow African tresses long, the hairstyle is still the most stereotyped in the world.
In the serene landscapes of Sweden, a young man named Kim Dimona embarked on a personal and transformative journey at the age of 19. This is Kim's loc story, a tale of finding identity, strength, and connection through the art of dreadlocking.
Embracing the Locs
"I didn't like my hair for the longest time," Kim recalls. For many years, he struggled with his natural hair, feeling a disconnect between his appearance and his inner self. But then, a thought emerged—a thought that would change his life. "I just figured out I would have dreadlocks," he says. It wasn't a decision spurred by external influences or a specific person; it was a feeling, an instinctive desire to transform.
The First Steps
Kim's journey with his locs began with his own hands. He decided to lock his hair himself, a process that marked the beginning of a profound self-discovery. "From that on, I started to like myself a bit more. I felt my identity got stronger," Kim shares. Each twist and turn of his hair seemed to weave together the strands of his identity, making him feel more complete and confident.
Strength and Growth
Locs, for Kim, became more than just a hairstyle—they were a source of strength. "I'm growing within," he reflects. The journey of locking his hair was parallel to his journey of personal growth. The process of maintaining his locs, though minimal—"just breaking them apart," as he puts it—symbolized a deeper, more significant inner maintenance and resilience.
A Connection to Roots
Kim's locs also bridged a gap between him and his heritage. Growing up in Sweden, he felt a disconnect from his roots, but the decision to lock his hair brought him closer to his Jamaican heritage. "When the locks came, I felt more connected," Kim explains. His locs became a symbol of pride in his background, linking him to his parents' Jamaican roots.
Words of Wisdom
To those considering the journey of locking their hair, Kim offers simple yet profound advice: "Your hair is your hair. You do whatever you want with your hair. But for me, it's been comfortable." He encourages others to embrace their choices and find comfort and identity in their unique paths.
Kim is also an incredible artist who creates murals. Check out his Instagram @delicious_brains.
Conclusion
Kim's loc story is a testament to the power of self-expression and the journey of self-discovery. His locs are more than just a hairstyle; they are a symbol of strength, growth, and connection to his roots. Through his journey, Kim reminds us all that our hair can be a powerful tool in embracing our true selves. Thank you, Kim, for sharing your inspiring loc journey with us.
What do you think of Kim's Locs journey? Can you relate? Please let us know in the comments.
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