Imagine capturing a moment in time so poignantly that it bridges past and present, embodying both cultural roots and personal growth. This is exactly what renowned photographer Irina Werning achieved with her project “The Girl with the Flying Hair,” featuring Sisa, a young girl from San Isidro, Salta Province, Argentina.

In 2014, Irina Werning came across Sisa, then seven years old. She was living in the secluded town of San Isidro, where just about three hundred people resided. With her mother’s help, Irina taped Sisa’s hair to a wall while capturing this unforgettable image.

Sisa’s smile, even when the tape pulled at her tresses, encapsulates a spirit untainted by time or trend—a testament to her resilience and joy.

Reflections of Thought and Spirituality

Sisa belongs to the Kolla indigenous community, where hair is more than just a physical attribute—it’s seen as a reflection of thoughts and an extension of Mother Earth herself. This belief underscores a profound spiritual connection with nature, teaching reverence and sustainability.

Traditional Practices

• The use of plants for healing reflects the deep-rooted knowledge passed down through generations.
• This bond with nature emphasizes humility, ensuring that resources are used wisely to benefit future generations.

A decade later, thanks to the Eugene Smith grant, Irina had the opportunity to return to San Isidro. There was an uncertainty about whether modern trends had influenced Sisa’s hair choices. However, upon her arrival, she found that Sisa still cherished her long hair and maintained her infectious smile.

Recreating a Moment in Time

Irina once again taped Sisa’s hair to the same wall, patiently waiting for the sun to mirror its position from ten years ago. This act was more than just an artistic endeavor—it was a celebration of cultural heritage and continuity.

A Connection Across Generations

Standing there in her traditional Àcheval Pampa blouse, Sisa paid homage to her ancestors. Her smile seemed directed at the universe itself, symbolizing peace, hope, and unity with nature.

Through this project, Irina Werning has provided us with a profound reminder of the importance of tradition in our fast-paced modern world. Sisa’s story exemplifies how cultural identity and personal expression can coexist harmoniously.

The Universal Appeal

• Her story is a celebration of individuality amidst community values.
• It highlights the balance between honoring one’s heritage while embracing modern influences.

Irina’s work encourages us to pause, reflect, and appreciate our roots, much like Sisa does with her ever-flowing hair. In a world where change is constant, preserving these connections offers a grounding reminder of who we are and where we come from.

“The Girl with the Flying Hair” is more than just a photograph; it’s a narrative about embracing tradition in an ever-evolving world. Irina Werning’s work serves as an inspiration for us to hold onto our unique cultural identities while navigating contemporary life.

As Sisa continues her journey, let us take a page from her book and cherish the beauty of our roots, allowing them to guide us towards a sustainable future filled with hope, grace, and resilience.