"Almost Famous" with Robert Lobetta at the Wella Studio LA

Robert Lobetta is a self-described "aspiring hairdresser" after years as a beauty industry icon and inspiration. An accomplished photographer, former global creative director of Sebastian and a recipient of the NAHA Lifetime Achievement Award, Lobetta shared his wealth of experience with an invited audience at Wella Studio LA, last evening, June 8, 2014. 

The program, entitled "Almost Famous", took attendees on a journey through Lobetta's career and carried them along his stream of consciousness.  He pointed out important highlights (a first break at Ricci Burns Salon in London, 1971. ) and chance happenings (unbeknownst to him, a Vogue editor sat in his chair and would run photos of her finished cut and an accompanying story in the magazine), as well as his cultural and career icons (Andy Warhol, Alexander de Paris, Vidal Sassoon) and profound personal discoveries (Lobetta's hair weaving innovation and his decision to step away from hairdressing and move towards creative direction, photography and film). 

"In 1976, I would begin using hair as a fiber," Lobetta said.  "Just as a sculptor uses clay, hair became my medium.  I had finally found what I was looking for, my unique style. I became known as the Salvador Dali of hairdressing."

Lobetta emphasized the importance of discovering a unique style, of specializing ("And shouting to the rooftops about it") as well as becoming a master of the craft and collaborating with like-minded people.

During the evening, Lobetta punctuated his talk with video clips of his photo shoots, published works and films. He concluded by observing that, "Unknowingly, I have been mentoring people for years.  I've had my 40 years of fame.  Now it is time for me to help other people become famous."

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