Mask Unit
Rationale:
Most cultures in the world have a mask tradition. We want to celebrate the rich
variety of cultures in the world and at the same time see the similarities in and
among other cultures.
RESEARCH & HANDOUT
NOTE: See the Mask Handout Check (Assignment Sheet/worksheet) for full
details.
Students individually researched a culture that made masks and create an
informative handout with the following information:
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Name, time (date to date), geographic location of the culture.
A map of the location of the culture.
Formal qualities used (type of color, line, shapes, balance, etc.).
Materials used
The character or function of the mask of the culture researched.
A MINIMUM of four (4) representative images of masks from that culture.
THE MASK
The students will:
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Create a mask influenced by the cultures researched by the group. This is not
copying the style or meaning of the masks but synthesizing from the material
that was introduced in order to come up with a mask that represents the
personality of the student or performs some sort of function that reflects
modern life.
On the self-assessment, name the cultures presented that influenced the mask
and described the ways the mask was similar and dissimilar to those cultures.
Describe what the mask represents and discuss possible ways the mask might
represent qualities of personality or identity and/or in what ways might the
mask be an opposite?
In what ways is the character or function of the mask similar and different
from the cultures presented by the class?
Concept
Using plaster craft as one material and a choice of other media, students will
create a life-sized mask that :
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Is realistic or abstract
Functions as a mask (holes for breathing and eyes & a way to attach to the
face)
Has a function that can be a force of nature or society.
a reflection of their personality
a reflection of their heritage
the me I would like to be
the me people see (outside) vs. the me I am (inside)
has qualities of an animal most like them etc.
Process
Make a series of thumbnail sketches (6 minimum) before selecting the mask
you will make. Make at least two larger roughouts for details and color.
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Use plaster craft to make a mold of your face to use either as the mask or a
mold from which to cast the mask.
Casts from the mold can be made in plaster, clay, paper pulp.
Consider distortions, attachments, etc
Consider texture and color
Product
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The mask should have a function that you can share with the rest of the class.
Consider how much you would want to reveal to your colleagues as you develop
your concept.
The mask must function as a mask not a wall hanging or trophy. Eye holes and a
means of attaching the mask to your head are essential to be able to function.
You will need to breath under the mask as well.
Consider design and structure. (The mask should not be too heavy or frail).
Composition
The mask should consider elements and principles in the function of expressive
goals.
Technical Skill
The construction of the mask should be sturdy and materials should be skillfully
used for the concept and function of your mask.
Portfolio
As always, the portfolio should contain all process work leading up to the final
product, the Self-Assessment form with the formal analysis of your work, and a
description of the symbol or image that acts to identify the sculpture as you.
Your name, class, and section number should be on the upper right hand side of the
paper portfolio. Place the portfolio on the table next to the window.
Work turned in late will receive a 10% deduction. Work turned in one week late will
(can) not be graded.
It should go without saying that your name must be on the handout.