My Mask Project

1. (3) inspiration images. Explain why you selected the inspiration pieces. Include the analysis and description (art criticism steps) of the three (3) inspiration pieces.


Black Man Sticking His Tongue Out
I selected the piece, Black Man Sticking His Tongue Out, filed under South American on the Masks of the World website as a source of inspiration because the painting as well as form has wonderful craftsmanship. The lines painted and within the form are crisp, clear, and smooth. Additionally, the black contrasted with the lines of painted gold highlights accentuates the form. The colored rings around the eyes create depth based on the light to dark color choices as well as a rhythm that hypnotizes the viewer in. The use of negative space above the eye and tongue serves as a resting point as well as a unique element that contrasts the weight of the full form.


Pacific Northwest of US and Canada
            This Native American mask caught my attention due to the linear abstract paint on the surface. The bold color choices allow facial features to pop from the form. The thick eyebrows and red around the small eyes bring the viewer in as a focal point. The crisp light blue paint serves as an additional focal point due to the dramatic contrast to the blackness found in the majority of the mask.


Beautiful West African Mask
            This West African mask is slender and feminine which I found to be unique. The bright blue color also separated it from many of the dark brown masks found in the African regions. The crown of the head is unique in that it extends upward with yellow painted lines all around. The solid triangular nose also gives off a unique element of character in comparison to the more rounded forms which compose the rest of the face. The bright red slightly open mouth gives the form depth and contrast against the blue.


2. Upload images of your sketches and finished piece.




3. Explain how you used the Elements and Principles in your finished mask. (color, pattern, repetition, rhythm, texture, line, shape, etc.)
Many of the basic elements and principles are carried throughout my piece. Line is carried throughout the piece for highlights, patterning, and for the contouring of facial features. The gold lines against the black provides contrast and allows for shapes to stand out. Repetition is used throughout in the circular eyes, top patterning of the head, and in the dots around the piece. My mask also uses a linear form for the nose which extends out from the piece and provides dimension. Variety is also represented in the metal nose ring in the mask’s nose in addition to the different colored eyes which separate from the color pallet used in multiple areas. Shape is another element used for shadow areas of the face and is represented as small red triangles. Overall, my mask utilizes many elements and principles to drag the viewer’s attention all across the surface.

5. Share your opinion of your finished mask and what you thought about creating the mask.

I found this project to be a challenge considering that most westerners are not familiar with this craft in their lives. Trying to conceive this dimensional form was difficult and implements decoration and surface treatment all had to be planned. The creation of this object certainly did not come natural to me. One major help in envisioning the design for my mask was looking at all the masked used throughout cultures around the globe. I used my reference images to compose the colors and shape of the form. I added a touch of my own flares in the gold elements and in patterning of the top head dress. Overall, I was pleased with the final result felt like I made a self-portrait. 

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