For my mask, I wanted to create a piece that is whimsical, something you could image a fairy wearing to a magical ball in the forest. At first glance the mask is a flowery butterfly, but the viewer will quickly notice the multiple eyes staring back, the tears running down the wings, and the little butterflies crawling across the mask as if trying to fly away. I’ve always enjoyed creating work that seems cute or pretty, but as you look a bit longer you realize that there is an unsettling twist. I chose a butterfly because I believe that butterflies are a beautiful symbol of transformation and hope. Many people look to the butterfly as inspiration to grow and change themselves, whether its mentally or physically. Finally, I wanted my mask to have movement, so I utilized a hinge at the center of the butterfly, allowing the wings to flap when moving it through the air. Materials I used are muslin fabric. tracing paper, matte medium, wire, paper clay, acrylic paint, a dowel and a hinge.
Sketches:
Work in progressive:
