Pamela Kleemann-Passi uses human hair to explore commodification of the body

Pamela Kleemann-Passi, a Naarm/Melbourne-based visual artist and photographer with over 40 years of practice, creates works from human skin and hair to examine the commodification of the human body. Her interdisciplinary practice spans photography, sculpture, textiles, and installation, focusing on themes of the body, medical science, and cultural identity. In 2021, she co-founded Art-Science-Alliance Inc. with Carolyn Lewens to foster artist-scientist collaborations. Kleemann-Passi is drawn to the liminal space between attraction and repulsion, noting that viewers often do a double-take when they realize her pieces are made from human hair. She describes hair as a sustainable, endlessly available material and sees her work as a conversation starter about uncomfortable topics. She encourages creatives to pursue their passion and emphasizes the importance of inclusive creativity for community innovation. Kleemann-Passi is a long-term member of ArtsHub, which profiled her in their 'Meet the Members' series.