“Understanding Cultural Appropriation vs. Appreciation in Mask Making.”
For two months now, this topic has occupied my mind, challenging me to capture its essence and honour its importance. Its a subject that has followed me the spanned of my career as a mask creator and is ever present in each mask I make. Addressing this relevant and meaningful subject while managing my dyslexia has been difficult and frustrating to say the least. I’m taking time and a step back to help alleviate the pressure I have put on myself to get this post up. To ensure the article is truthful, insightful, and impactful for you, my creative companions. While I work on the article, I recommend watching the documentary attached at the end of this article, exposing how greed corrupted the legacy of renowned Indigenous artist Copper Thunderbird, also known as Norval Morrisseau.
Click the Picture Norval_Morrisseau
Morrisseau remains close to my heart. I met him a handful of times in the early medieval ’90s as a young man. I remember an elderly figure, ancient to my young eyes, struggling with health issues affecting his painting. His inviting nature, generous teaching, and encouragement of my artistic interests left a lasting impression. His charisma and passion for art still resonate with me three decades later. Morrisseau helped me connect with my art and identity as an artist, revealing new perspectives on creativity and how to draw inspiration from the world me. He showed me art’s universal presence and its power to connect us all.
I encourage you to watch “There Are No Fakes” and consider its implications. It highlights the art world’s complexities and the crucial need to protect artistic integrity.
This week, I’ve decided to keep the post short and sweet. However, I want to give you a heads-up—this post is all about challenging yourself and stepping out of your comfort zone.
Sometimes, we need a nudge to grow
This challenge is designed to do just that. It focuses on connecting with your local theatre communities, learning new techniques, and venturing into uncharted territory. It may seem daunting initially, but the rewards for personal growth and artistic development are well worth the effort. So, step up, take on this challenge, and see where it leads you.
Connecting with your local theatre community will profoundly enrich your journey as a mask maker. You’ll introduce yourself through professional emails or phone calls, express your interest in masks, and seek valuable advice on using masks in productions. This process offers an opportunity to connect, learn, and grow.
Steps:
Craft Your Introduction:
Write a professional introduction. Explain who you are, what you do, and your interest in masks. Seek advice and insights on how masks are used in their productions.
Research and Reach Out:
Before contacting local theatre companies or professionals (such as art directors), craft a list of questions and research the company you want to approach. Familiarize yourself with their mission statement and what the company is about. These questions will help you gather information and seek advice about using masks in their productions. These are just some suggested questions to help you get started. You will need to tailor them to your own needs and queries.
It’s also important to know that maybe the company you’re contacting doesn’t have a history of using masks. So, it is best to ask some clarifying questions. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t hear back from the thin within a week. These people are very busy, and they may not be able to respond to you as quickly as you would like… if at all. The point is to put yourself out there and see what happens.
List of Information Seeking Questions:
How do you incorporate masks into your theatrical productions?
What are the key challenges you face when using masks on stage?
Can you share any specific techniques or methods used to create and maintain masks for performances?
Are there particular themes or styles that your productions often explore through the use of masks?
List of Advice Questions:
Based on your experience, what advice would you give to someone looking to integrate masks into their performances?
How can a mask maker effectively collaborate with theatre professionals to ensure the masks align with the production’s artistic vision?
In your opinion, what makes a mask design effective in enhancing a character’s portrayal on stage?
Are there any upcoming opportunities or projects where a mask maker could contribute their skills?
Engage in Conversations:
Arrange informational interviews with those who respond positively. Discuss how masks are incorporated into their performances, any workshops they offer, and potential opportunities for collaboration or display.
Document Your Journey:
Keep a photo journal or record your conversations for future reference. This will help you reflect on your learning and how to incorporate it into your practice.
Self-Care Check-In:
Plan time for yourself during this challenge. Making connections can be stressful, so balance your outreach efforts with personal art-making time to rejuvenate your creative spirit. I recommend doing some mask designs, perhaps of masks you would like to see on stage or masks you talked about while interviewing one or all the people who replied.
Sample Letter:
Subject: Mask Maker Seeking Advice on Theatre Production Collaboration Opportunities.
Hello,
I’m [Your Name], a dedicated artist specializing in creating theatrical masks that bring characters to life. I’m eager to explore collaboration opportunities with [Theatre Company Name] and would value any insights or recommendations within the local theatre community.
Could you provide some insights on your company’s approach to using masks in production?
Does [Theatre Company Name] incorporate masks into its productions?
How does your company acquire masks for performances?
Do you have an in-house mask maker, or do you outsource this role?
What criteria do you prioritize when selecting a mask maker?
I’ve attached some images and a brief artist bio showcasing my work. For further examples, please visit my website and social media links below.
Thank you for your time. I look forward to discussing how my mask-making skills could contribute to [Theatre Company Name] or other projects within your organization.
Attach your CV with a picture of your work and a headshot of yourself to help humanize your letter [ this should be a PDF or Jpeg so that it can be easily shared.]
Website: [Your Website URL]
Social Media: [Your Social Media Links]
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Title if you have one]
Attachments:
Make sure to send medium format photos, at least 1024 pixels on the longest side, 72 DPI resolution, and ideally as a collage for easy forwarding. Include one product shot of your mas and one professional action shot. [Attach only one or two pictures of your masks.] The best quality photos you can.
This challenge encourages you to leave your comfort zone and connect with the local theatre community. It provides valuable insights into the practical application of masks in performances, opens potential avenues for collaboration, and helps you understand theatre professionals’ specific needs and preferences. Engaging with others allows you to gain knowledge, build relationships, and grow as an artist.
Approach this challenge with enthusiasm and curiosity. The connections you make and the knowledge you gain will enhance your craft and inspire your artistic journey.
Dare! Be brave, my fellow creative. You have greatness within you, and you need to share your gifts with the world.
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Lets pause to acknowledge and reflect upon the land on which we stand. We are on the unceded territory of the Kanien’kehà:ka (Mohawk) people, who have been stewards of these lands and waters since time immemorial. This place, known as Tiohtià:ke (Montreal), is part of the vast land mass known to many Indigenous peoples as Turtle Island. We recognize that Turtle Island, now called North America, has been home to diverse Indigenous nations long before the creation of colonial borders. The land we now call Quebec and Canada is built upon thousands of years of Indigenous history, culture, and traditions. On this day, we acknowledge the complex and often painful significance July 1st holds for many Indigenous peoples across Turtle Island.
Dene Youth Drummers, NT
Establishment and expansion of the Canadian state came at a tremendous cost to First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples, through land dispossession, forced relocation, and cultural genocide.
Douglas Witt
As a Métis artist with Mohawk ancestry, I carry a personal connection to this history and a responsibility to honour it. However, this acknowledgement extends beyond personal heritage to recognize all Indigenous peoples who continue to live with the ongoing impacts of colonization. We call on all people residing on Turtle Island to reflect deeply on the true history of this land. We encourage learning about the rich cultures, languages, and traditions of Indigenous peoples, as well as the difficult truths of how Canada has treated and continues to treat Indigenous nations. This acknowledgement is not just a statement, but a call to action. We must all play a part in the ongoing work of reconciliation, supporting Indigenous sovereignty, and building a future based on mutual respect and understanding.
MÉTIS SASH
As we reflect on the meaning of Canada today, let us commit to creating a society that truly honors the original peoples of Turtle Island, their histories, and their futures. Let us work towards a Canada that lives up to its promises of justice, equality, and respect for all who call this land home.
This week, I’ve decided to keep the post short and sweet. However, I want to give you a heads-up—this post is all about challenging yourself and stepping out of your comfort zone.
