Module 10 - Mask Making

1.    Explain why you selected the inspiration pieces.

     I selected the Lulua, the Teke moon, and Baule mask because they are all African masks that have bright red or orange coloring on them. Some of the African masks that I researched were very plain wooden masks so when I found some of the other masks that were decorated with red coloring I decided I would research those types more. Also once I finished the assigned readings and watched the videos I was very interested on why these African masks worn and how they resembled the culture and gave it meaning.

2. Include the analysis and description (art criticism steps) of the three (3) inspiration pieces.

     The Lulua were famous for decorating their bodies with intricate scarification marks and tattoos. They also applied these designs to their sculptures and masks.The masks, which are rare, are usually incised with geometric pattern and colored with a reddish pigment. The pointed forms on the top of the head represent the Lulua hairstyle.

      Teke moon shaped masks are worn by members of the Kiduma - a secret society that takes charge of social celebrations and rituals.The mask is held in place with a bite bar at the back which the wearer holds in his teeth.These masks are usually decorated with geometric symbols and divided by a horizontal stripe. They are colored with clay and paint.

     This type of African mask is a Baule mask which is also known as a Goli mask. It is used in tribal dances during harvest festivals, in processions to honour distinguished visitors and at the funerals of important figures.The circular face represents the life-giving force of the sun and the horns symbolize the great power of the buffalo. The mask is made of wood with two holes cut into the eyes to enable the wearer to see. The rectangular mouth is also typical of this type of mask.

3. Explain how you used the Elements and Principles in your finished mask.

  I really liked how the Lulua masks had elements of line represented on them so I wanted to incorporate the element of line into my mask. I used the element of shape which is created when lines are combined to form a square, triangle, or circle. Shapes can be organic (irregular shapes found in nature) or geometric (shapes with strong lines and angles such as circles, triangles, and squares). Each color is represented with a shape whether it's a circle, triangle, oval, or square on my mask. I used color to differentiate and define lines, shapes, forms, and space. Even black and white images have a huge number of different shades of gray. And lastly, I used balance over my entire mask with the shapes represented. I also tried to use balance when drawing the lines on my mask to represent the Lulua tribes masks.

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

      I like my finished mask because I used elements from the Lulua, Teke, and Baule masks. I really like the use of red and blue from the Teke mask, I like the continuous lines represented on the Lulua masks, and the triangular shapes framing the mask from the Baule mask as well as the rectangular mouth piece. I really wanted to incorporate elements from all three of these makes into my own mask.