Opening May 22 5-8PM | 901 G Street NW Mobile Art Gallery
CulturalDC is proud to bring The Barbershop Project back to Washington, DC - this time in the heart of Downtown during World Pride 2025.
Originally launched in 2019 with artist Devan Shimoyama, The Barbershop Project transforms our Mobile Art Gallery into a fully immersive, reimagined barbershop that explores themes of identity, care, and belonging. The space will once again offer free haircuts during the opening reception on May 22nd in partnership with DC Public Library.
This interactive installation honors the barbershop as a vital space for self-expression, transformation, and inclusivity-particularly for Black and LGBTQ+ communities.
Meet Our 2025 Mighty Mighty: The Barbershop Project Barbers
We're honored to introduce the incredible team of barbers bringing The Barbershop Project to life in 2025. These artists are more than stylists - they're community leaders, culture bearers, and visionaries who understand the barbershop as a space for healing, connection, and transformation.
Led by Brixton Millner, who served as the lead barber for the original 2019 iteration of The Barbershop Project, this year's team brings a powerful mix of artistry, experience, and purpose.
We're also proud to welcome Lesley "Lady Clipper" Bryant, owner of Lady Clipper Barber Shop, whose trailblazing work in DC's grooming scene continues to create space for inclusivity and self-expression. Lesley will lead her team in offering free services throughout the exhibition run.
Joining them are the immensely talented Eric Jackson and Akil Wilson, who bring precision, creativity, and care to every cut.
Throughout the exhibition, these barbers will be offering free haircuts to the public inside our Mobile Art Gallery, providing not just style - but dignity, care, and community connection.
Photos by: Vivian Marie Doering
This work would not be possible without their generosity and dedication, as each of them is donating their time and talent to support The Barbershop Project and the communities it serves.
Special thanks to Brixton, Lesley, Eric, Akil, and the Lady Clipper team for being the heart of this activation.
