The win, that awards a stylist’s creative talent represented in a photographic collection as well as other criteria, sees Pato take the title for the seventh time in row.
Pato was also inducted into the AHIA Dennis Langford Hall of Fame for his work and commitment to the industry.
“What a massive surprise and a very special honour,” Pato said in a social media post acknowledging the wins following the awards ceremony in Sydney. “This has been an incredible journey filled with challenges, sacrifices, and countless hours of hard work. I am aware of the new AHIA competition rules that require me to step down for two years. I guess they’re kicking me out! ”
The AHIA Creative awards require entrants to submit a creative collection in photographic form, as well as demonstrate contributions to the industry and career paths through comprehensive written submissions.
Australian Hairdresser of the Year was awarded to Justin Pace of Co and Pace salons and International Hairdresser of the Year went to Mark Leeson.
The finalists for New Zealand Hairdresser of the year were Andrew Cobeldick of Buoy Salon and Spa, Ann Marie Young of Jingles Hair Design, Kylie Hayes of Moha Hairdressing, Michael Beel of Michael Beel Hair, Sara Allsop of Dharma and Shannon Dowd of Zibido Hair.
Pato’s collection Heroine was inspired by bursts of colour powders and by the ink-in-water artwork of Alberto Seveso. A variety of hair textures are celebrated, with theatrical colours expressing the boldness of each character. Classic hair
forms are exaggerated – mermaid waves, the flat top, the shag and the bob are given a super-expression.
The imagery, shot by photographer Mara Sommer, was inspired by iconic heroines from across pop culture – manga, video games, comic books and super hero films.
Pato is the co-founder and creative director of D&M Hair Design in Ponsonby, Auckland.
Hair & Art Director: Danny Pato using Davines, assisted by Michael Sisaengrath and the D&M Hair Design team.
Photographer: Mara Sommer, assisted by Josh Szeto.
Stylists: Danny Pato & Rachel Morton
Makeup Artist: Kiekie Stanners, assisted by Miranda Raman and George Copeland
Special FX Makeup Artist: Luana Millar
Producer: Ryland Wood
Post: Olivia Mander
Models: Lilly Egan from 62, Crystal Lim from N, Jenna Watermeyer and Sophia Bogiatto from Red11.
