The Hat

That’s a hat – I mean a wrap! Who would have thought one delightful photo of an actress in a hat would lead to an entire project of actresses in hats? It’s been quite a journey, not least since I’ve been able to exercise my skills with digital art, an unexplained fascination with drawing faces and my interest (and a degree worth of education) in film and writing!

Yet this project also posed a question I’d never thought to ask: what exactly is a hat?

There of course is an obvious answer, but the more I thought about it, the more it became clear the use and function of a hat was actually quite vast and my curiosity was heightened when I realised there must be a history behind (beneath?) the hat. Off to Wikipedia I went and the history of hats does indeed date as far back as 3000 BC (at least the earliest recording of hats).

Whether protective (from sunlight, heavy, falling objects, or light drizzle), or fashionable (gotta look good for those weddings, horseraces, funerals … hmm), I think we underestimate and take for granted the purpose of a hat.

As this project has demonstrated, it may serve you in hiding your emotions (a la Gerri), hiding those secrets (a la Cora), or simply playing a role (a la Amy). Shielding pain, truth, adopting a different persona, or indicating your class, the hat isn’t just about covering our often fragile heads, but often it is used to make a statement – and we are not just hat racks!

Not Just A Hat Rack reel on Instagram