Launching his empowerment campaign ‘I Can, I am, and I Will‘ four years ago hairdresser Louis Byrne could little imagine how far he might share his message of wellbeing and mutual support. Now truly confirmed as an artist and activist, Louis can add another string to his bow with the launch of an exhibition, featuring a series of digital portraits captured as part of his inspirational movement.
I Can I Am and I Will
Louis Byrne opening the I Can I Am and I Will exhibition
Conceived to support individuals in living authentically, the I can I am and I Will campaign promoted reconnecting with your inner self. By fully owning your identity, and embracing all of what you truly are, you can experience a more fulfilling and purposeful life.
Through his mentoring and workshops – as well as his day job as an acclaimed and in-demand session stylist – Louis photographed and filmed pieces that capture the faces of those who embody the I Can I Am and I Will outlook. Ranging from celebrity clients to street-cast models and individuals living in London, Lisbon, Paris and Ibiza, the portraits represent a truly authentic and incredibly diverse and inclusive take on beauty.
Artistic endeavour
For his portraits, Louis worked with each subject to visually represent their personality and sense of style, in a collaborative process between hairstylist, photographer and muse. “With this project I sought to embrace positive storytelling through the power of hair,” explains Louis. “It has been a journey of self-discovery for me too, using the mantra of I Can I Am and I Will to help me overcome and create.”
Now a display of illuminated, digital portraits can be found at Ilona Rose House in London’s buzzing Soho. This major new 300,000 sq ft development houses premium office space, as well as gardens, cafés, courtyards and public walkways, created to allow commuters and passersby to stop, linger and enjoy a moment of peace away from the hustle and bustle of Charing Cross Road.
Who’s who on the wall
Emma Willis for I Can I Am and I Will
Famous faces that can be spotted in the exhibition include Vicky McClure, Princess Julia, Emma Willis and Aj Odudu, as well as a full cast of friends, clients and individuals who are committed to living their best, most authentic lives.
“This collaboration is about owning your identity and embracing who you are,” says Louis. “It celebrates community connection and the power of positive relationships. Thank you to everyone who has been involved over the years – I feel very blessed. It’s amazing to see my work displayed like this, and I’d like to say a massive thanks to Soho Estates for the opportunity. It looks gorgeous! Never give up on your dream: many won’t get what you’re doing, but if it’s your passion and purpose, go and get it.”
AJ Odudu for I Can I Am and I Will
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