Step 1 - portrait or birth
Mbali's hair journey:
Next steps:
synthesize ideas for the mask making phase
digitize 3D sketch (I call the sculptures I do in modelling clay 3D sketching because I’m better at sculpting than drawing... I find sculpting way more fun... and I hope to gradually ease you into the realization that this sculpture will eventually be destroyed) 😶
prepare the papier-mâché pulp for sculpting the mask
The process:
sculpt the preliminary study of the mask with modelling clay
prepare the paper clay (papier-mâché) with leftover pulp from my recycled handmade paper making process 🌿♻️💚
add an initial layer of papier-mâché to the modelling clay base
add more refined papier-mâché to define the facial features
remove modelling clay from dried mask
sand, seal, paint and add details
Sometimes I work on multiple projects at the same time. Imani, another mask can be seen in the photos above.
Zemora was also featured in an installation piece I did for Nuit Blanche 2020. You can check that project post here.
A peek at the installation below:
I create masks as a means of exploring identity and outlook on the world in relation to people of colour. In the installation Point de repère, the nature of things shifts depending on where the participant stands. Viewing the installation through the eyes of the mask brings a particular view of the world into being. The mask is made from recycled materials, including paper and sawdust, using a papier-mâché technique.
Je crée des masques comme moyen d'explorer l'identité et les perspectives du monde par rapport aux personnes de couleur. Dans l'installation Point de repère, la nature des choses change selon où se place le du participant. Regarder l'installation à travers les yeux du masque donne une vision particulière du monde. Le masque est fabriqué à partir de matériaux recyclés, y compris du papier et de la sciure de bois, en utilisant une technique de papier mâché.
Techniques mixte / mixed media
Dimensions variables / variable dimensions