Inspired by ‘upstyles’ and weaving techniques from the 1960s of Tokyo; especially by the pioneering of famous geisha hair master Junji Noburyu (or ’Shinryu’), photographer Joe Lai (b. 1977, French) and hairstylist Heitai Cheung (b. 1989, Hong Kong) became contagious by Noburyu’s passion by applying his techniques on modern Asian women. The fundamental book of which techniques Big Hair is based on was originally referenced as a technical book, but for Lai and Cheung a new realm of magic was found within its pages, as well as for the participating models who all had dreamt about being styled with this classical hairstyle. Heitai Cheung devoted a year to perfect the techniques needed to complete the series.

Published by Libraryman, 44 pgs, 26 × 20 cm, Hardcover, 2021, 9789188113559