Click on the images for full size.

Objectives:

Become aware of the purposes of masks in many culture, materials used - form and
function -- will see how cultures use readily available materials in the construction of
masks.
Compare and contrast masks from various cultures - comparing medium used - form
and function. Students will view contemporary masks and contrast meaning to
cultural masks.
Design a mask using cultural examples for inspiration - changing the meaning conveying a special message about the times in which we live.
Integrate planning - use draped slab form of construction along with other hand
building techniques.
Exhibit craftsmanship in forming and finishing their work of art
Critique the work - determining how well the mask portrays the message it is
intended.

Materials:
9 x12 newsprint, pencils, scissors, celluclay (self hardening clay may be used, too),
Newspapers, plastic bags, canvas cloth, guide sticks, rolling pins, slip dishes, clay modeling
tools, potter's needles, fettling knives, texture gadgets/tools, wood/Masonite boards,
moist paper towels, plastic bags
For finishing:
Acrylic paint (brown, black and assorted colors), paint markers, Sharpies, brushes, water
dishes, wire for hanging jute, yarn, beads, raffia, horsehair, boas, other nature things...moss,
feathers, etc - Be creative! Tacky Glue, hot glue gun, glue sticks.

Resources:
See also Mexican Mask links on Paper Mache Head lesson plan. See Dance Masks from
Mexico; Masks from Nepal, Javanese Masks, Masks from Bali (all from a commercial site but good images) Another Face- Masks Around the World (great web site)
Masks by George Ulrich - Milwaukee Public Museum -excellent article
Mask Article from Encarta - Has six images. Gives you the option of printable page.
Mask images from 22 countries (lots of images) Mask images from various cultures
Look for more Mask Resources on Mask Makers Web http://www.maskmakersweb.org 4 2
eXplore

Behind the Masks: Exploring Culture and Self Through Art and Poetry

Instruction:
Research traditional masks from a variety of cultures - using the Internet or print material..
From this they are asked to replicate its form but to change its meaning. This meaning you
must interpret from a 2D image (photograph or digital image) into a 3D form. Then identify a
contemporary issue and work this onto the masks through the use of symbols, icons, text,
messages, etc. Symbolism, juxtaposition of images and the construction of meaning and
how the meaning of the original form can greatly impact and add to the meanings you are
trying to generate.

Procedures:
The masks are celluclay works made using a hump mould that student make using a plastic
shopping bag and newspaper. Most of the features are pinched and pressed pieces joined
on. All of the masks are made to fit the face and are hollowed out on the reverse side.
Students are giving it a painted finish - both with additional embellishments - some collage
elements to help convey meaning.

Evaluation:
1. Did students discuss - compare and contrast various masks from around the world?
Were they able to speculate on materials used and purposes of masks?
Yes we discussed and researched different masks on the internet to try and find a
mask to recreate or give us ideas of how to incorporate different ideas into a mask. I
was not able to identify the purposes of the masks because I didnt understand how
or why the masks had the look or design and what it was supposed to stand for.
2. Did students create a mask showing characteristics a selected culture? Did they use
exaggeration, distortion, simplification of forms - concentric shapes?
I decided to make a mask I found online of Doby. It doesnt have a lot of
characteristics of a selected culture but is unique in its own way. I didnt use
concentric shapes great but it is decent.
3. Did students integrate planning into the creation of a celluclay mask using draped
slab method with added coil, slab and pinch relief? Show an understanding of
forming techniques?
Yes I did use the different techniques to try and make my mask as good as possible.
I showed an understanding of forming techniques because my mask didnt fall apart
and it looked decent.
4. Did students explore a variety of media in the completion of their celluclay mask?
Exhibit craftsmanship? Does the decoration help convey meaning? Does mask
Yes my mask shows a little bit of craftsmanship but even with my full effort I couldnt
make him look good. My mask doesnt convey much meaning because he is a
character off of Harry Potter.

5. Did students successfully critique and write about the meaning of their mask for display?

I did finish the project on time but even with me trying my hardest the project still
doesnt look very good. I havent been able to create a good piece of artwork yet but I
did finally use my time wisely this project unlike the first project.