I did this mask project with a Grade 8 class. To create the masks, we used plastic face forms which I ordered from Dick Blick. I initially liked them because they are multicultural. However, once I opened them, they're actually quite small-- I wish I could find much bigger ones.
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| plastic face forms |
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plaster roll |
I have done this mask project before having students make the masks on their faces, but it's quite the process: you always have one or two who don't want to do it, girls don't want their make-up to come off, etc, hence, I went with the face form and it's MUCH more convenient. Students LOVE working with plaster, btw. It's my most requested medium by all grades.
We used plaster strips to form the masks, about 2-3 layers. Once dry, we primed them and then students could use any materials they wanted to create a mask of their choice. I showed them examples of masks from around the world beforehand.
Some hot glued on additions, such as cut out cereal boxes, parts from egg cartons, cardboard tubes, etc. I like to emphasize 'reuse & recycle' in my classroom, like most Art teachers do! I also keep on hand loads of 'crafty' materials (sequins, plastic jewels, glitter, feathers, etc). These were spray varnished at the end.
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| In my sample, I hot glued on a cut cereal box to add height. |
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| Open up a paper clip and hot glue it to the back for a simple hanger. |
Ta da!
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| My sample: I was going for an Indonesian style mask. |
6 comments:
I've not done masks before and am a relatively new art teacher. After the initial mold is finished what material do you use (other than cardboard) to build details such as nose, brows, ears, etc.? Do you continue to use the plaster strips or could we use a newspaper flour/water mix or even toilet paper glue mix. The plaster strips don'e seem as pliable. I am starting these soon so please respond soon. Thank you for sharing.
Hi missart: the plastic face molds themselves have the eyes, eyebrows and noses already, so those details come out with the plaster.
If you want to add to these, or exaggerate them, then yes, you could just tape on scrunched up newspaper/paper towel and cover that with the plaster strips.
Good luck!
Hi! These masks are wonderful! Do you need to add anything such as plastic wrap or Vaseline to the mold before applying the plaster strips? Does the plaster release easily from the mold? Thanks for sharing your knowledge!
Thanks Paige! No, you do not need to use any Vaseline- because the mask molds are smooth plastic, the plaster does not stick and pops right out. Apply the plaster strips to the inside of the mold and you get smooth results. I know some people apply the strips to the outside of the mold, but my students prefer the inside.
Will tempera paint work on this? How many plaster stip packages are needed for a class of 24? How big are the packages?
Yes, tempera paint will work. Plaster brands all contain different amounts- I use a variety of brands. Some are bigger, some are smaller. I can't really remember how much I bought- I buy alot so I always have it on hand.
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