Masks: Sacred and Profane
Mask Making
In this lesson, students will study masks from different cultures and with different purposes. They will then compare and contrast the function and visual elements of each mask and the importance that each mask has in its respective culture.
Students will then create a mask with a specific function in mind. This mask should draw from elements of the researched masks, but be contemporary in both function and design. Elements of art and design (line, shape, form, texture, color, contrast, value, pattern, movement, emphasis, etc...) should be considered in the creation of this mask. It does not need to be entirely ceramic, but must be completed by the date of presentation despite the materials so plan accordingly.
Remember that clay can mimic the look and feel of many materials from leather, to carved wood or stone, metal, etc...
The mask must include areas of clay both added and subtracted.
We wear masks for many reasons: for fun, for protection, or to make a statement. In turbulent public settings, obscuring one's face can protect an individual from retaliation while evoking fear and uncertainty in others. Donning the mask of a cultural, political, or religious figure can lend that person power and further his or her legacy. Those who wear masks to protect their faces from environmental hazards may also end up sending a message of caution to outside observers. In many cases, though, masks play a more lighthearted role, allowing the wearer to take part in a festival and become someone (or something) else for a time. Once more, I've gathered here a few recent images of people wearing masks, covering their faces for a wide variety of reasons.
Please start by reading this article "Masks." Take notes (to share in class) on anything you found interesting or that might inform your design.
Assignment (click for assignment)
1. Please begin your research by reading this... Reading "MASKS" (click for reading)
2. Now, it is time to decide what mask region/culture/function you want to explore. You could do a Google search but you may be overwhelmed by the volume and randomness of you results. First, I suggest you narrow down your results by checking out the following...
Presentation - A variety of masks
Masks of the World - Check out this site for a collection of masks from...you guessed it- The World!
3. Once you have decided which mask you will take inspiration from... fill out this Design Sheet in its entirety, have a fellow student look at your idea, and have a peer critique/sign off on your design then present it to Mr. A.
4. Now you are ready to create your mask.
MASKS: Sacred and Profane
Ceramics II: Unit 2
LESSON GOALS AND OBJECTIVES:
Students will research the culture of a chosen mask region in the world.
Students will create a sacred(?) or ritual mask inspired by their chosen culture, incorporating the elements and principles of design within their creation using clay as the sculptural medium.
The masks may be historical or contemporary in nature.
Students will incorporate their own ideas reflecting individual creativity. (i.e. not copying directly)
Present Sketches to class and instructor for feedback and discuss construction ideas.
Completed masks will be displayed in the high school library.
TIMELINE:
• 1 class (plus HW) to read article and research
• 1 class (plus HW) for drawings and flushing out ideas (critique drawings)
• 3 classes for mask construction and dry time and presentation/in progress critique
BISQUE FIRING
• 2 classes for surface decoration
GLAZE FIRING
• PHOTOGRAPH AND UPLOAD TO WEBSITE
Create video reflection.
• 1 class for critique and presentations
