Women in Hats
The Face of Lincoln County

A Photo Essay by Cheryl Sullivan and Peter B. Renich

While collaborating with Cheryl Sullivan on a design project, I casually mentioned how I was visually drawn to women who wear hats, an attraction cultivated by my grandmother, a milliner.

Social trends dictate fashion. Coming of age in the forties, a discussion of fashion requires an understanding the tremendous impact World War II had on everyday life during the early part of the decade. World War II changed the world of fashion forever. The hallmarks of style in the early 1940s included an austere silhouette with narrow hips, padded shoulders, and all manner of hats, an image indelibly imprinted on my memory. Hats were one of the only items that were not rationed or restricted during the war. Because of the shortages of materials, hats in the 40’s were usually small, often reflecting the military style. They were often made out of felt, feathers and netting. Elaborate hats were considered a luxury. Many working women wore turbans and scarves to tie back their hair, epitomized by Rosie the Riveter.

For a decade, I’ve wanted to do a photography exhibition portraying how the perception of women is transformed when adorned with head gear, offering subtle clues to their individuality. Sharing an interest is photography, without much forethought, Cheryl and I decided to proceed while the opportunity was available. The Capitan Chamber building was temporarily available, offering an ideal location. Cheryl has an extraordinary group of friends in Lincoln County, ranging in age from 5 to 85. Invitations and an open call went out. To focus on the hats, participants were asked to wear black, posed against a white background.

For three days in April, we accepted all comers. The first day dragged, but by the final day of the shoot word had spread. The pace accelerated, creating a beehive of activity, including participants from Capitan, Carrizozo, Lincoln, White Oaks, Alto and Ruidoso. From over 500 photos we’ve selected 48 for display.

Thanks to the generosity of Gregg Russell the exhibition will be on display at Oso Art, opening June 9th in conjunction with the ‘Taste of Capitan’ Street Fair benefiting the Capitan Public Library Building Fund and the Smokey Bear Park Playground Fund. From there it will move to the State National Bank in Ruidoso and finally to the Capitan Public Library.

Peter B. Renich – 505.354.3232

Cheryl Sullivan – 505.653.4390