A Different Kind of Mask

Update: Michigan Legacy Art Park is collaborating with the Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts in Manistee for an encore gallery and art workshops as we all start to reconnect with our communities on our journey back to normalcy.

Everyone has become familiar with the phrase “don’t forget your mask” — it’s one of the ways of being safe during the health crisis (in addition to many other changes in how we live our lives).

In exploration of this powerful symbol, the feelings it invokes, and to bring our Art Park family closer together during this challenging time — our Volunteer Director of Education Patricia Innis led the “Stay Home, Stay Safe” art project with our volunteers, Board Members, artists, and staff.

The project asked participants to reflect and then decorate a paper-mache mask to express their personal story during the current health crisis.

“The designs on my mask represent how I spent my time during ‘Coronacation’. Schoolwork, cuddling with my cat, Zoom, and Netflix. The navy blue background represents how I felt.” — Anika

In these masks, there are unique and shared experiences. During a time filled with isolation, Art has a way of bringing people together.

“I created my collage mask to include some of the activities that have helped to make the STAY HOME, STAY SAFE experience endurable, and provide simple pleasure and distraction.
I read a lot … even books I felt worthy of a reread.
Excerpts on the mask background are from Ann Pachette’s novel ‘Bel Canto’.” — Carol

In total, over 30 masks were created through the project. Patricia Innis continues to share the concept with other organizations and has inspired many other arts groups to lead similar projects.

Special thanks to Innis, Patty Pelizzari and Deona Paine for their support in making this project happen. Highlights from the project will be displayed at the Art Park’s Discovery Grove and a future exhibit in collaboration with the Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts in Manistee.