We cover the making of Theatrical Masks in detail, for all budgets and resources.
Facial expressions are essentially made by the angles and juxtapositions of the lines made by eyebrows and mouths. Everything else is pretty much cosmetic. But there is real magic in those two lines. Research done by Stockholm University focussed on the micro-adjustment of the facial muscles beneath the skin, so small they were imperceptible to both the person and the observer, at least consciously. Unconsciously, the observer’s brain registered these minute movements, and mirrored them, firing their amygdala and producing in them the same emotion as the person they were observing. Thus they identified the process of empathy.
So faces, whilst ruled by those two lines, have an enormous range of expression.
The simplest form of masking is to draw faces onto flat surfaces and wear that surface – a paper plate, card etc. Anything that covers the face can be regarded as a mask – a paper bag, a scarf, a bucket…
If you’ve the resources to use clay – or can hook up with the Art dept – then this is where it gets interesting – and messier, more expensive, and more rewarding.
Masks are generally carved from clay. This positive clay mould can then have a surface added to it, like papier mache or cloth mache, or if you’ve the money, an advanced material like Wobla.
Or the positive clay mould can be cast in Plaster of Paris and a negative mould made. Then the surface material can be added inside the mould. This leads to a smoother surface, and the ability to make repeat copies.
The quick and easiest method – if you have access in your school’s tech dept – is to put the clay mould into a Vac-Forming machine and produce the mask in plastic.
There are plenty of Theatrical Mask Making guides coming soon in our member area.
Exclusive New Theatrical Mask Sets Coming Soon…
We are in the process of creating our very, newly designed, set of theatre masks. Which we’ll soon be selling here in our shop for a very competitive price. With additional discounts when you join our upcoming membership.
Even if you’ve a set of masks already, after a while it’s good to refresh your experience with a different style of mask, or add to your collection.
New Theatrical Masks being Created in Toby’s workshop
