Maskwork: The Background, Making and Use of Masks

Maskwork is a new way of looking at the art of masks and mask-making: a unique combination of ethnography, design and practical advice. Jenny Foremanis book for teachers and practitioners of drama, art, design and technology grew out of a research bursary from the UK's National Society for Education in Art and Design. They received her report with great enthusiasm as 'one of the very best projects ... likely to make a valuable and useful contribution' to both specific and cross-discipline school and college courses as well as to adult performing groups. The first part explains the anthropology, nature, use and meaning of masks around the world, from prehistory to modern times. Richly illustrated with colour and black-and-white photographs, this section introduces the ethical implications of free use of masks which have ethnographical connections - an important aspect completely neglected elsewhere. The second part comprises eight theme workshops, including theory, background and instructions for mask-making, supplemented by photographs of assembly and use by groups of people from all age-ranges. Materials are inexpensive and easy to acquire, while line drawings aid step-by-step construction. A bibliography and reference section helps readers go on to even greater understanding and achievements.