A JOURNEY TO CREATIVE AUTHENTICITY

Darren and Jackie Ambrose, (the D and the J in D&J Ambrose) have made creativity and photographic work the centre of their business

D&J Ambrose at L’Oréal Colour Congress 2023

Darren and Jackie Ambrose have mastered the delicate balance of commercial success in the salon environment, while unleashing their free spirits and creative freedom beyond its walls.

The couple firmly believe that the key to success is being uncompromising on delivering a creative vision, even if commercial pressures may try to steer them in a different direction. For them, hair and the art of hairdressing isn't just about showcasing their skills and the latest trends; it's a means of self-expression, an artistic avenue that allows them to explore their passions beyond the salon's boundaries.

"When you've been doing this for a long time, you find that there is a power in not compromising," Darren shares thoughtfully. "While it's essential to work for the client in the salon, outside, we have the freedom to explore our artistic souls and collaborate with other like-minded artists without the fear of someone not liking it."

D&J Ambrose understand that true artistry lies in embracing the unconventional and being unafraid to challenge the norms. It's their willingness to stand out, to keep it quirky, that adds an intriguing layer to their photographic work. Jackie explains, "Resisting the commercial pull allows us to infuse our photographic collections with our distinct personalities and vision. Both our hairdressing peers and clients appreciate the uniqueness and authenticity we bring to each project. For us, it's not just about replicating trends; it's about creating a collection of images that leaves a lasting impression on viewers."

The journey towards creative authenticity hasn't been without its challenges. In an industry that sometimes demands conformity, Darren and Jackie had to remain steadfast in their beliefs and convictions. They emphasised the importance of staying true to themselves and their creative process, even if it means swimming against the current. "The creative brilliance of this industry is what has always appealed to me," Darren admits. "Some people don’t always understand what we are about – we’ve never been ones to follow the herd – and that’s ok. We instead love to constantly push the boundaries that make this industry so dynamic and exciting, and gradually people began to see the value in our approach, and it started to resonate with them too." Over the years, D&J Ambrose has cultivated a loyal clientele who appreciate the salon's artistic flair and commitment to pushing boundaries. Clients seek them out not just for a haircut but for an experience that reflects their individuality. "Building a clientele that understands and values our artistic perspective has been immensely rewarding," Jackie says. "It's an incredibly satisfying feeling when our clients trust us to bring our creative best to the table."

Beyond the confines of the salon, Darren and Jackie find immense joy in collaborating with other artists. This mutual exchange of creativity fosters an environment of boundless inspiration, where ideas flow freely, and experimentation knows no bounds. "We love collaborating with other artists, photographers, makeup artists, and models," Darren enthuses. "It's liberating to come together with like-minded individuals who share a passion for creative expression. We feed off each other's energy, and it's reflected in the final product."

"We have the freedom to explore our artistic souls and collaborate with other like-minded artists without the fear of someone not liking it."

For D&J Ambrose, creative authenticity is not just an abstract concept; it's ingrained in their daily practices. It's evident in the unique collections they produce, showcasing the fusion of innovative hairstyling and unconventional artistic elements. By resisting the commercial pull, they have found their niche, their own artistic voice. As they continue to inspire and influence the hair industry, Darren and Jackie Ambrose serve as a living testament to the power of creative authenticity.