Mixed Materials

13.11.23

Animal Mask

We were given instructions to create an animal mask using an old guide on how to make a bird shaped mask. I originally wanted to make a fox but ended up making a highland cow. I found this task quite hard and fiddly initially when creating the paper mask. I had to re-make the nose part a few times to get it the right shape and angle.

We were also given Plastazote which I found quite easy to work with and enjoyed the process of cutting and sticking the pieces together.

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27.11.23

Today we were introduced to techniques we could add on top of our masks and the functions of them.

We learnt about Worbla, Varaform, Fosshape as well as the properties of Plastazote. It was interesting to learn how each material reacted differently depending on their heating properties.

Worbla is activated by heat gun

Varaform is activated by hot water

Fosshape is activated by steam

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15.1.24

During today’s session, I finished my highland cow mask by priming it and then painting it white so that I could add colour and fur on top and hide the grey of the Plastazote. I also finished molding the Worbla to make the nose and the Fosshape to make the ears. Outside of lessons I went and bought some fur to bring it to life. Originally, I had made teeth for the fox but after sourcing the fur I decided to turn it into a highland cow and remove the teeth.