Learning objectives:
students will understand the difference between 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional work
students will construct a mask that has various dimensional levels
students will understand the history of mask making

For the second semester, students will be working primarily in three dimensional work.  The introduction to the difference between 2-D and 3-D is shown through the use of a curved plane - the foundation for the mask they will be making.  To introduce the lesson, students will be shown a video on the history of mask making.  A discussion following the video is helpful to reinforce some of the major points.  Discussion questions could include:

• What kinds of things did cultures use masks for?
• From what materials did different cultures construct their masks from?
• What role did native animals play in mask making?
• What native animals would you see around here that might influence your own mask?

Mask Assignment:

Students will create a life-sized mask that begins with a curved plane, constructed in paper mache.  The mask will have several requirements:

• the mask must fit the entire face
• if a domino mask is chosen, it must extend above so that the size is equivalent to a full face mask
• the mask must have parts that extend out in space
• the mask must have an additional component besides paper mache (yarn, hair, fabric, etc)

Students will construct the basic mask using corrugated cardboard from discarded boxes, glue and masking tape.  A demonstration of how to score the cardboard to create a curved plane, and how to cut and attach supports to retain the curved surface is necessary.  Students will use x-acto knives and cutting boards to cut their cardboard into the basic shapes.  Another demonstration on ways to shape cardboard using scoring and folding is also helpful.  Students will construct the framework for their mask before adding a paper mache coating.

After the foundation is complete, students may want to use pliable paper mache dough to create more realistic contours.

Students will cover the foundation (including dough additions) with strips of newspaper dipped in wallpaper paste, and molded smoothly over all surfaces, including the edges and backs of their mask.  Students need to cover all parts of the mask with at least 3 layers of paper mache, no more than one layer per day, letting the masks dry overnight.

Before applying a primer coat of white paint, students will need to inspect their mask for loose strips or jagged edges.  These can be torn off to leave a smoother surface.  A coat of white house paint on front and back will help cover the newsprint so that it will not show through the finished paint job.  After the primer coat has dried overnight, students are ready to use acrylic paint to decorate their mask, completing their project with the addition of materials that they have supplied.

This project will take approximately 10 working days.