Bellevue artist Suzanne Way has come to a decision. She decided to cut off her very long, triple-thick auburn hair to be made into wigs for children who have lost their hair through various illnesses. This is the first time Way has decided to donate.
Davidson A.M. sat down with Way this week to discuss her decision, her art and why she thinks it is a good idea for others to donate.
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO DONATE YOUR HAIR TO CHARITY?
I adore kids and animals and often use their images in my art. It just breaks my heart for little kids to be sick and to see the pain that they and their parents have to go through. I just feel like I don’t need all this hair. It grows fast, and once I cut if off, I’ll still have enough to play with. It’s just an easy thing to do and it helps not only the child who receives the wig, but also that child’s entire family.
WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU CUT YOUR HAIR, AND DO YOU REMEMBER HOW SHORT YOU CUT IT?
It was about eight years ago and I cut it to shoulder length. As you can see, it grows very fast. I am actually thinking of letting it grow out again after I cut it all off this time so I can donate again.
HOW WOULD YOU ENCOURAGE OTHERS TO DONATE THEIR HAIR TO CHARITY LIKE YOU’VE DECIDED TO DO?
I would tell them to think about where the hair is going and what good it’s going to do. It might be a little emotional to cut your hair, but there is no pain involved. Just keep in mind, you have to have a minimum of 10 inches of hair to donate.
ARE YOU A BELLEVUE RESIDENT? HOW LONG HAVE YOU LIVED HERE?
I am a Bellevue resident. My family has lived here about nine years. It’s really beautiful. I’m an outdoor person, and I’m always out and about with a camera taking pictures of nature for my art. I’m always in the Warner Parks, finding inspiration. It really isn’t hard to find it here though.
WAY TO THE GALLERY
Getting there: Suzanne Way’s gallery, open since September 2005, is at 6600 Highway 100, Nashville TN, 37205.
CLASSES AND LESSONS:
She is available for teaching on Tuesdays at Hobby Lobby in Franklin. Classes focus on painting and drawing. Private lesson times are available on request. Call 615-337-2621 for more information or to sign up for classes.Way may be contacted at thewaygallery@comcast.net or by phone at 615-337-2621.
