Preparation
01 · Define the purpose
- Symbolically explore themes such as identity, culture, belonging, or emotions.
- Encourage creative expression and collaborative hands-on work.
- Use art as a channel for reflection or community intervention.
02 · Gather materials
- Cardboard, paper, foam sheets, papier-mâché, or fabric.
- Markers, paints, scissors, glue, elastics, ribbons.
- Decorative items like buttons, fabric scraps, yarn, feathers, sequins, recycled objects.
03 · Set up the space
- Large tables with materials accessible to everyone.
- A designated area to display the finished masks.
- Optional: background music or visual inspiration elements.
04 · To run the activity virtually
- Use collaborative platforms to present examples, share designs, and inspire one another.
- Invite participants to make their masks at home and upload photos or videos of the process.
Step-by-step instructions
1
Introduction and prompt:
- Present the proposal: each person will create a mask that represents a part of themselves or a symbolic character.
- Briefly explain the use of masks in different cultures or contexts.
2
Inspiration and sketching:
- Give participants a few minutes to think or sketch a preliminary idea.
- They can draw inspiration from emotions, roles, animals, natural elements, or themes chosen by the group.
3
Mask creation:
- Each person selects their materials and begins constructing their mask.
- Participants may work individually or in pairs/groups depending on the goal of the activity.
4
Presentation:
- Once completed, each person can present their mask to the group.
- They may share the meaning, inspiration, or character behind their creation.
5
Reflective closing:
- Invite participants to reflect on the process, how they felt, and what they learned through the art-making experience.
Materials
Cardboard, paper, cardstock, foam sheets
Paints, felt-tip pens, markers
Scissors, glue, tape, elastic bands
Feathers, sequins, buttons, fabrics
Recycled materials such as bottle caps, bottles, or tubes
Practical recommendations
Provide a variety of materials and textures so each person can explore freely.
Use visual examples to inspire and spark imagination.
Allow enough time for creation and personalization.
Let the process be just as important as the final result.
Encourage dialogue during the creative process.
Inspiration
Thematic Ideas for Masks:
- Masks of symbolic animals
- Masks representing emotions or moods
- Masks of imaginary or mythological characters
- Masks of community heroes or local role models
- Ritual masks inspired by world cultures
- Masks that represent fears or dreams
- Masks based on elements of nature
- Masks that blend reality and fiction
- Masks with social or environmental messages
- Masks representing community roles
- Cardboard or cardstock (more accessible and lightweight)
- Paper mâché (durable and moldable)
- Fabrics or felt (soft and easy to use for children)
- Recycled masks (made with bottles, egg cartons, etc.)
- Clay or modeling dough (for more three-dimensional shapes)
