Coming back to a project has given me time to reflect, especially as I take a minute to consider the year as a whole, both what I want to take with me and what I intend to leave behind.
Masks are a wonderful way to discover differences in cultural perspectives, character nuances, and the ideas of subtext and implication. They allow students to dive into the past and see into another’s eyes — literally. For that reason, I highly recommend them as a tool for many teachers in many subjects. But what if you are prohibited from ordering art supplies (and therefore aquaplast)? Well Ta DAA! Enter Manila Folder Masks. Made almost entirely out of Office Supplies!!! Manila Folder Mask: What is it? Believe it or not, Manila Folders have different properties than any other paper product, including card
I have given many mask-making workshops, with the adult cast of a show, for toddlers, in school settings, with tweens who have disabilities, and as part of a physical theatre performance at a museum. Each time, the group members have been surprised by the newness of it, then cautious and worried about getting it right as they begin, then delighted and enthusiastic as the masks come into being in their hands. Too often, I think, such exploration of an alien landscape is relegated to an art class when its power and wonder would blossom in sooo many other circumstances. I
This week’s blog is Part Two of Mask-Making Tips, with a focus on Aquaplast. For tips specific to making masks with paper mache (or papier maché), read my earlier blog, Mask-Making Part One and check out Mask-Making Part Three for how to make a mask with a manila folder. Aquaplast: What is it? Aquaplast is a medical plastic that becomes pliable when immersed in boiling (or near-boiling) water. It comes in different types, each of which has different shaping/molding properties. It’s made by Sammons Preston Rolyan, and can be purchased online from any large medical company (like Patterson Medical or
I am often asked to teach classes, mentor, or give advice regarding mask-making practices. Towards this end, I am dedicating this first blog to making masks with Papier Mache, the second Mask blog post to making masks with Manila Folders, and the third Mask blog post to making masks with Aquaplast. Papier Mache: What is it? In a nutshell, Papier mache is a process in which strips of newspaper (usually) are dipped in a mixture of either wallpaper paste and water or glue and water, then laid over a sculpted mold. What are the pros and cons of using it?
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