The art of the hat is one that is often overlooked. Most of the time people don’t even wear them. But the most iconic of the head’s accessories has an expansive amount of possibilities and utilities. Hats are typically made to protect, warm, or provide shade to the head. However, the design of hats often precede those functions. In July I had the privilege of seeing hats made by Hudson Valley artist Deborah Ryan. Her steampunk-inspired creations are on display at Blue Byrd’s Hole In The Wall gallery, at 320 Wall St.
Within this collection were a few dark, gothic hats. They shared a motif of metal adornments, contrasted with lacy ribbons and veils. They evoked delicacy with an edge. Two hats are fully decorated with elaborate floral patterns that maintain a dark gray color scheme. They encapsulate the steampunk style more than their peers and remind me of historic significance, as if they have been preserved perfectly over time. One of the steampunk hats was wrapped with two leather belts, in an especially bold pair of accessories.
A few of the hats were made from found objects from nature, giving them the appearance of top hats that have formed from natural causes. The main body is wrapped with bark patched with moss, and branching off of it are literal branches with their own dead leaves. One is accessorized with a small beehive. These nature-built hats are my personal favorite. They’re identifiable as both a possible fashion statement from a fantastical realm, or as a fresh practice in using objects from nature to create something often crafted from machines. Regardless, the bark hats feel like a small miracle to be able to see.
The final three hats stand out as colorful departures from the other two specific themes. The most elaborate one is covered in a beautiful mosaic of ceramic pieces. While the front is grim-looking with a skull depicted in a top hat of their own, the rest of the mosaic hat shows off a wonderland of colors, plants, and creatures. Another hat combines mediums, different images done in painting and others weaved into the hat. The top of it is done with different fabrics stitched together. The variety is a feast for the eyes and a gift for the observant. Finally, there’s a hat with a clock face on the front. On the clock is a door which can be opened to find a figure inside. The rest of the hat is like a landscape, with a grassy brim topped with a beautiful night sky. There’s a mysterious and fantastical story being told with this hat.
It’s always rewarding to see what different artists opt to create, and the unique canvases they make are with. I’m often surprised to find such deep investments into niche ideas here in the area. It’s just more proof that the local arts scene here is thriving with intuitive and creative minds. Check out more of Deborah Ryan’s work at thebee11654 on Instagram.
