David Hammons' hair and wire sculptures, created throughout his career, stand as a testament to his innovative use of materials and deep engagement with themes of identity, culture, and the African-American experience. These works, by incorporating everyday objects and materials such as hair and wire, probe into societal views on race and identity, often challenging and subverting preconceived notions.

One such piece from the mid-1970s involves mud, metal, hair, wire, black-eyed peas, and rubber bands on a metal base, exemplifying Hammons' skill in blending disparate materials to create complex, thought-provoking sculptures​ (The Museum of Modern Art)​. This work, like others in his oeuvre, utilizes African-American hair, a material laden with cultural and historical significance, gathered from barbershops, which Hammons has employed in various sculptures to offer poignant reflections on identity and racial stereotypes​ (Ronifeinstein)​.

Another notable work, "Hair and Wire, Venice Beach" (1977), showcases Hammons' adeptness at creating site-specific installations that resonate with the location's cultural and social context. Although specific details of this piece are scant, its title suggests a blend of organic and inorganic elements to capture a moment or aspect of the Venice Beach environment, a recurring theme in Hammons' work that seeks to root his art in real-world experiences and spaces​ (www.wikiart.org)​.

Hammons’ approach to art is characterized by a refusal to adhere to conventional artistic norms or to allow his work to be easily categorized or digested. His pieces, rather than presenting a straightforward message, invite viewers into a dialogue, often leaving them with more questions than answers. This aspect of his work is reflective of a broader philosophy that views art as a means of challenging societal norms and sparking conversation around critical issues​ (Arteidolia)​.

Through his hair and wire sculptures, as well as his broader body of work, David Hammons emerges not just as an artist but as a critical observer of and commentator on the times. His works, lying at the intersection of art, social commentary, and activism, continue to inspire and provoke audiences, cementing his status as one of the most important artists of his generation.