The Mask is the original magic image. When we wear a mask we assume the personality and attributes of the image of the mask. African, aboriginal  and Native American masks were used in connection with magic spirit rituals and employed  supernatural powers to control the outcome of events in life, create fertility, bring prosperity, good harvest, or to act to destroy an enemy of the tribe or clan. We will not use these masks for evil or malevolent purposes but to serve a bold and expressive images to possibly give form to alter egos, ( the image of our unconscious selves.) The concept of "Persona" comes from the mask. The "personality" is the mask identity we project to the world in our everyday life and relationships.

 Construction:
1. The supporting shape comes from the corner of a corrugated cardboard box:.
2. The structure of features like the eyebrows, nose, wrinkles, or hair, is built up using "bunched up" slightly- moist, toweling. These masses and contours can be taped in place until the glue tissue layers make them secure.
3. The final "skin" of tissue paper or napkin paper  is layered over it. This skin of paper Mache' must be handled carefully to make a seamless smooth skin. Three or four layers will make it rock hard.
4. The adhesive is white school glue (Elmer's glue type) mixed about  50/50. Toilet paper can be used for the final surface but where more bulk is needed, use semi moist, paper toweling to build the form.

Finishing treatment is open to your imagination.
Applied decoration with surface textures offer rich possibilites. Such textures made from natural materials like sea shells were popular with native mask makers. Any material can be used for ornament, e.g. buttons, beads, rope, chording, macaroni, etc. etc.

Painted effects. Make sure the paint or pattern does not detract from the structure. Transparencies and antique effects are more subtle than bright paint effects. There are two ways of making an antique look. 1. Use a transparent dark wash (acrylic) over a base coat which is a light color. or 2. Use a lightly rubbed on light color over a base coat which is a dark color. (any dark color or black). Here is where metallics are very effective. Caution: apply very, very lightly, use fingers. 
Fabric or fiber  to suggest hair or decoration: Raffia, cord, string, yarns. To connect use a well crafted design system, such as knotted yarn drawn through holes.

Mask work by Keri K

Mask Example 1

Mask Example 2

Mask Example 3