Banana Hair is a visual diary telling the stories of my childhood and family through a series of projects that offer whimsical cultural commentary and a modern take on Americana. Utilizing purposeful eclecticism, this thesis seeks to uncover the abounding magic in what is perceived as ordinary. In a celebration of the human experience, this body of work courts humor and delight to spotlight cultural experiences that are absurd but authentic, bizarre but beloved in a project that highlights objects, loved ones, and traditions that bring joy.
Banana Hair: Delight in Familial Design
Meredith Zerby
Don’t Pole Vault Over Mouse Poop
This book eternalizes the wise words bestowed upon us by prior generations. Incorporating patterns inspired by patchwork and quilting, it celebrates the silly, and the hilariously absurd advice imparted by our loved ones in the name of love.
Show Time!
On our way down the hall, we open up the closet. These photos were inspired by my family’s love for Halloween and a childhood spent dressing up and putting on shows in our entryway.
Home Sweet Homes
Oh goodness, pardon our mess of advertisements on the kitchen table. “Home Sweet Homes” brings home buyers into a fantasy world of live-able gingerbread houses. This project is an ode to the cherished memories of making these confectionary structures with my Nana.
Season’s Eatings
On the refrigerator are holiday cards titled Season’s Eatings celebrating our family’s untraditional Christmas meal of hodge podge hourderves. At the meal, we serve shrimp cocktails, sausage cheese dip and potato skins.
Vita Bella Bath Products
In our household, the bathroom was not just a place for brushing teeth. It was center stage for my dad to sing Dean Martin’s song “That’s Amore,” a song about falling in love and Italian food. Inspired by the song’s lyric “Vita Bella” meaning “beautiful life”, this goofy bathroom set embraces my love for writing, humor, and tactile making.
The Joys of Ping Pong
My uncle was a Junior Olympic Ping Pong Player. In my cousin’s basement, he bestowed upon us his knowledge in wielding a paddle. In a mashup of old exercise videos and sports knowledge, this silly instructional video brings the game of ping pong from our home sports network to national television.
Hot Dog!
Us Zerbys love a good weenie roast and Fourth of July at my grandparent’s farm would not be complete without my Papa sitting in the barbeque essential - the folding lawn chair. In a fusion of food, function and fantasy, this hot dog chair encapsulates time spent on the Zerby farm.
Pool Days
Before you go, escape the heat and cool off with a dip in the pool. This video clip provides tips and tricks so your sun-bathing experience is a success!
