African Mask Project
Unit 2: Personal Identity Through Cultural Inspiration
๐ญ Project Overview
You will create an original mask inspired by African mask-making traditions that reflects your personal identity, family values, cultural heritage, and what matters most to you.
โ ๏ธ Important:
You are creating a mask INSPIRED BY African traditions, not copying an existing African mask. Your mask should honor the artistic styles while telling YOUR unique story.
๐ What You'll Learn About:
- Yoruba, Baule, and Dan mask traditions
- How masks were used in ceremonies
- Symbolism in facial features, colors, and patterns
- Cultural appreciation vs. appropriation
๐จ What You'll Create:
- Research sketches in your sketchbook
- A detailed mask design plan with meaning
- Your own 3D decorated mask
- An artist statement explaining your choices
๐ Project Timeline
Research & Sketch Activity #1
Research Yoruba, Baule, and Dan masks + ceremonial uses chart
Mask Variation Activity #2
Sketch different features and patterns to build your design library
Design Planning
Complete planning worksheet and final design drawing
Studio Work
Create your mask using provided base and your materials
Artist Statement
Write about your mask's story and cultural inspiration
Research & Sketch Activity #1
๐ Your Tasks
Task 1: Sketch One Mask from Each Culture
Click the links below to see examples of masks from each culture:
- ๐ Research Yoruba masks online โ Sketch one in your sketchbook
- ๐ Research Dan masks online โ Sketch one in your sketchbook
- ๐ Research Baule masks online โ Sketch one in your sketchbook
Task 2: Read About Ceremonial Uses
Read the information below about how each culture uses masks in ceremonies:
๐ญ Dan Masks - Spiritual Mediation and Entertainment
The Dan people of Liberia and Cรดte d'Ivoire create masks that serve multiple important functions. The Dan believe their masks embody forest spirits that act as intermediaries between the human world and the spirit world.
Deangle Mask
Features smooth, oval faces with feminine features and serene expressions. Represents a beautiful forest spirit who brings peace and harmony. Used in ceremonies for guidance, warnings, or blessings.
Dan masks also serve educational purposes - performing dances that teach moral lessons through storytelling. Some masks enforce rules and settle disputes in the community.
๐ญ Baule Masks - Honoring Spirits and Ancestors
The Baule people of Cรดte d'Ivoire create masks that represent nature spirits and ancestral beings. These masks feature refined, symmetrical faces with elaborate hairstyles, smooth skin, and scarification marks representing beauty and cultural identity.
Goli Mask
Features a circular face representing the sun's life-giving force, with horn-like projections symbolizing the buffalo's power. Appears during harvest festivals, funerals, and ceremonies welcoming visitors.
Portrait/Spirit Spouse Masks
Represent nature spirits from the otherworld. When someone experiences bad luck, they may commission a mask to honor their spirit spouse, helping restore balance between physical and spiritual worlds.
๐ญ Yoruba Masks - Celebrating Mothers and Female Power
The Yoruba people of Nigeria use masks in the Gelede festival to honor "the mothers" - elderly women, female ancestors, and spiritual forces associated with feminine power who possess great spiritual power (ร แนฃแบน).
Gelede Masks
Feature calm, composed human faces with elaborate headdresses depicting animals, people in daily activities, or abstract designs. These tell stories about proper behavior, social values, and current events.
Performed by men in pairs with acrobatic dancing, drumming, and singing. Through humor, satire, and storytelling, performances address social issues, mock bad behavior, and celebrate virtues. The performances can even criticize powerful people in an acceptable way because messages come from the spirit world through masks.
Task 3: Create Your Chart
Fill out this chart in your sketchbook with at least 6 examples:
| Mask Type | Purpose | Occasion |
|---|---|---|
| Example: Dan Deangle | Spiritual mediation | Ceremonies seeking guidance from forest spirits |
| Add your examples... |
๐ก Use your own words and be specific about what kind of ceremonies!
Mask Variation Sketchbook Activity #2
๐จ Building Your Design Library
Choose 2-3 different masks from each cultural tradition (Yoruba, Baule, Dan) to study their features.
โน๏ธ This is like creating your own style guide - you'll mix and match these features later to create an African mask!
Exercise A: Feature Focus
Sketch 4-6 different examples of each feature and label with the culture:
- ๐ Eye shapes (almond, round, narrow, geometric, etc.)
- ๐ Nose shapes (long, wide, narrow, triangular, etc.)
- ๐ Mouth shapes (smiling, serious, open, closed, etc.)
- ๐ Headdress styles (crowns, horns, geometric, etc.)
Exercise B: Pattern Practice
Draw 3 different scarification or decorative patterns:
- Lines (parallel, zigzag, wavy)
- Dots and stippling patterns
- Geometric shapes (triangles, circles, grids)
- Spirals and curves
๐ก Check the "Symbolism Guide" tab to see what these patterns mean!
Exercise C: Full Mask Sketch
Now use your library of features from Exercises A and B to create an African mask design to show your understanding of mask traditions.
Design Checklist:
๐ค Reflection Questions:
Think about these as you work:
- โข What makes African masks different from realistic portraits?
- โข How do the shapes, proportions, and decorations communicate meaning?
- โข What type of mask would represent YOU, your family, and your heritage?
๐ About Scarification
Scarification refers to tribal markings that were a form of identification. A person could trace their roots by the type of markings on their body and face. These permanent marks were passed from family to family and identified royal lineage and village membership.
Symbolism Guide
Use this guide to help you choose features, colors, and patterns that have meaning for YOU. Remember, you're being inspired by African traditions to tell YOUR story!
๐ Eye Symbolism
Large, round eyes
Innocence, openness, honesty, receptiveness
Narrow or slitted eyes
Focus, secrecy, patience, introspection
Deep-set eyes
Mystery, hidden knowledge, ancestral power
๐ Nose Symbolism
Broad nose
Strength, grounding, connection to earth and ancestors
Long narrow nose
Nobility, high status, elegance
Flattened nose
Humility, approachability, equality
๐ Mouth Symbolism
Open mouth
Speaking truth, vitality, song, invocation
Closed or small mouth
Wisdom, silence, restraint
Down-turned mouth
Warning, disapproval, protective power
๐ Face Shape Symbolism
Oval / elongated
Femininity, beauty, grace
Angular / rectangular
Masculinity, authority, structure
Heart-shaped
Love, fertility, compassion
๐ Headdress Symbolism
Animal motifs (horns, feathers, tusks)
Totem spirit, clan identity, bravery
Geometric patterns
Cosmic order, tribal marks, moral balance
Vertical height / crown
Connection to the divine or higher wisdom
๐จ Color Symbolism
Black
Power, mystery, the unknown, ancestral spirits
White
Purity, peace, light, connection to the spiritual world
Red
Life, vitality, danger, spiritual power
Brown
Earth, humility, grounding, stability
Yellow / Gold
Wealth, fertility, divine power
Blue
Love, peace, harmony, truth
Green
Growth, fertility, renewal, health
Purple / Indigo
Royalty, mystery, wisdom
Orange
Energy, endurance, transformation
Gray
Balance, age, transition between life and death
โจ Pattern & Texture Symbolism
๐ Visual Pattern Reference Guide
Click image to view full size
Click to open full size image
Parallel Lines
Order, stability, structure, discipline, social harmony
Crosshatching / Grid
Community, interconnection, woven life, unity
Dots / Stippling
Fertility, vitality, continuity (like seeds or stars)
Spirals
Growth, evolution, journey of the spirit
Zigzags / Lightning Lines
Energy, transformation, protection, divine power
Waves / Curves
Water, intuition, emotion, flexibility
Triangles / Chevron Repeats
Strength, resilience, balance, protection
Circles / Rings
Wholeness, unity, eternity
Smooth / Polished Surface
Youth, vitality, beauty, civilization
Rough / Carved Surface
Wisdom, experience, history, spiritual strength
Design Planning Worksheet
๐ Before You Build Your Mask
Complete this planning worksheet in your sketchbook. You need to explain the MEANING behind EVERY feature you choose!
โน๏ธ This is the most important part - your mask should tell YOUR story!
๐ Eye Shape/Style
What style will you choose?
Options: Almond-shaped, Round, Narrow/Slit, Large, Small, Geometric, Triangular, Other
Why did you choose this style?
Write: "This eye style connects to my identity/family/culture/heritage because..."
๐ Nose Shape/Style
What style will you choose?
Options: Long/Elongated, Short, Wide, Narrow, Triangular, Rectangular, Curved, Other
What does this represent?
Write: "I chose this nose style because it represents..."
๐ Mouth Shape/Style
What style will you choose?
Options: Smiling, Serious/Straight, Open, Closed, Large, Small, Geometric, Other
What meaning does this hold?
Write: "This mouth style is meaningful to me because..."
๐ Face Shape
What shape will you choose?
Options: Oval, Round, Long/Elongated, Square, Heart-shaped, Rectangular, Shield-shaped, Other
What does it symbolize?
Write: "I chose this face shape because it symbolizes..."
๐ Head Adornment
What will you put on or around the head?
Options: Headdress/Crown, Feathers, Beads, Horns, Geometric shapes, None, Other
What is its significance?
Write: "My head adornment is significant because..."
โจ Textures and Patterns
What textures or patterns will you use?
Options: Lines (straight, zigzag, wavy), Dots, Stripes, Triangles, Circles, Geometric shapes, Rough texture, Smooth texture, Other
What do they represent?
Write: "I chose these textures/patterns because they represent..."
๐จ Color Choices
List the main colors you will use (up to 6)
๐ก Check the "Symbolism Guide" tab to see what different colors mean!
Why these colors? What do they mean to you?
Write: "I chose these colors because..."
๐ Materials List
โ Provided by Classroom:
- Base white mask
- Cardboard
- Paint (list colors you need)
๐ Bring from Home: (Not required - Only suggestions)
- โก Yarn (what color?)
- โก Beads (what color?)
- โก Fabric (what type?)
- โก Feathers
- โก Buttons
- โก String/Ribbon
- โก Glitter
- โก Sequins
- โก Foil
- โก Markers
- โก Other: ___________
โ Final Checklist
Before starting your mask, make sure you've completed:
Mask Building Guide
๐จ Build With Confidence
Follow this step-by-step guide to turn your planning work into a bold, three-dimensional mask that shares your story.
Work patiently, check your plan often, and let your creativity lead the way.
๐บ Video Tutorial
Watch the cardboard mask demonstration for a full walkthrough before or during studio time.
Pause, rewind, and replay any part that you want to see again.
๐ ๏ธ Materials Provided in Class
- White base mask
- Cardboard sheets
- Scissors
- Hot glue and white glue
- Acrylic paint
- Paintbrushes
- Markers
- Colored pencils
๐ Bring from Home (Optional)
- Yarn or string in any colors
- Beads made from wood, plastic, or anything meaningful
- Fabric scraps, felt, or ribbon
- Feathers and buttons
- Sequins or glitter for sparkle
- Foil, metallic, or tissue paper
- Natural items like small sticks, leaves, or seeds
- Old jewelry pieces or keepsakes
- Other personal items that represent you
Prepare Your Workspace
- Cover your desk with newspaper or a tablecloth.
- Set out all materials so you can reach them easily.
- Keep your design plan and sketches close by for reference.
- Wear an art smock or old shirt to protect your clothes.
Tip: Keep a damp cloth handy to wipe glue or paint from your hands.
Add 3D Features with Cardboard
- Check your plan: which features should pop out (nose, eyes, cheeks, forehead, headdress)?
- Sketch shapes on cardboard first, then cut carefully.
- Glue pieces on with hot glue (with teacher help) or white glue.
- Hold each piece for about 30 seconds so it sticks.
- Layer cardboard on top of cardboard to build dimension.
Specific Ideas
- Nose: Stack triangles, rectangles, or curved pieces to make it stand out.
- Eyebrows & Forehead: Add curved strips or geometric shapes above the eyes.
- Cheeks: Use circles or ovals on either side of the face.
- Headdress: Build upward with crowns, horns, or patterned shapes.
Safety: Ask for help with hot glue. If you choose white glue, let it dry 15โ20 minutes before painting.
Paint the Base Colors
- Start with the largest areas, like the main face color.
- Use acrylic paint for bold, bright coverage.
- Brush on two coats, letting the first dry for 10โ15 minutes.
- Paint any cardboard add-ons so they blend into the design.
- Rinse brushes between colors to keep shades clean.
Painting Tips
- Choose big brushes for broad areas and tiny brushes for details.
- Mix colors on a palette or paper plate to create custom shades.
- Keep a water cup nearby for quick brush cleaning.
- Wipe away drips with a damp cloth before they dry.
Add Patterns and Details
- Wait until the base paint is totally dry (about 20โ30 minutes).
- Use markers, paint, or colored pencils to add lines, dots, zigzags, spirals, and symbols.
- Outline facial features and add eyelashes, lips, or other expressions.
- Layer contrasting colors so patterns stand out.
Detail Ideas
- Dip a toothpick in paint for tiny dots.
- Use a pencil eraser for larger stamped dots.
- Sketch lightly in pencil before committing if you're nervous.
- Permanent markers glide smoothly over dry paint.
Add Special Materials and Decorations
- Personalize your mask with yarn, beads, feathers, fabric, and meaningful objects.
- Use white glue for most decorationsโit dries clear and holds well.
- Think about how each material connects to your identity or culture.
Decoration Ideas
- Hair or Beards: Glue strips of yarn around the edges.
- Sparkle: Brush on glue and sprinkle glitter or sequins.
- Texture: Crumple tissue paper or foil for raised surfaces.
- Meaning: Add colors or items that celebrate your heritage.
Final Touches and Quality Check
- Let everything dry completely before moving the mask.
- View your work from different angles to spot missing details.
- Secure loose pieces and touch up paint where needed.
- Compare the finished mask to your planโdid you include the meaningful elements?
โ Quick Checklist Before You Say โDone!โ
- My mask has layered, 3D features.
- All areas are painted on purposeโno accidental blank spots.
- I added patterns and surface details that match my plan.
- I included special materials that matter to me.
- Every piece is glued securely.
- The mask tells my story and I feel proud of it.
๐ Need Extra Help?
Feeling stuck?
- Ask your teacher to review an example.
- Collaborate with a classmate and support one another.
- Rewatch the tutorial video for specific steps.
- Tackle just one small task at a time.
Cutting or gluing worries?
- Let your teacher handle hot glue if you need assistance.
- Switch to white glue if you preferโit simply dries slower.
- Ask for help cutting thick cardboard.
- Simplify shapes if detailed cuts feel tricky.
Not sure what to add?
- Look at the Symbolism Guide tab for inspiration.
- Use favorite colors or shapes that represent you.
- Ask: โWhat makes me special? What matters to my family?โ
- Rememberโsometimes less is more.
๐ You're Creating Art!
Your mask doesnโt need to be โperfectโโit needs to be yours. Every decision you make adds to the story your mask tells. Take your time, be bold, and have fun sharing who you are.
Project Rubric
Total Points: 40
Each category is scored 0-4 points (10 categories total)
๐ Final Grade Scale:
Your total score รท 10 = Final Grade (0-4 scale)
F
0 - 0.5
D
0.6 - 1.5
C
1.6 - 2.5
B
2.6 - 3.5
A
3.6 - 4.0
Example: If you earn 36 points total โ 36 รท 10 = 3.6 = A
1. Research & Sketch Activity #1
4 - Exceeds Standard
Sketched masks from all three cultures with detailed research and understanding of design elements
3 - Meets Standard
Sketched masks from all three cultures with good understanding
2 - Approaching
Minimal sketches with limited understanding
1 - Beginning
Incomplete sketches with little cultural understanding
2. Ceremonial Use Research
4 - Exceeds Standard
Comprehensive explanation of ceremonial use, symbolism, and cultural importance with specific examples
3 - Meets Standard
Clear explanation with adequate detail
2 - Approaching
Basic explanation with limited detail
1 - Beginning
Minimal explanation with little understanding
3. Mask Variation Sketches
4 - Exceeds Standard
Multiple detailed, varied sketches exploring diverse styles with clear experimentation
3 - Meets Standard
Adequate sketches showing exploration with some variation
2 - Approaching
Limited sketches with minimal exploration
1 - Beginning
Few sketches with little variation
4. Final Design Plan & Drawing
4 - Exceeds Standard
Exceptionally detailed, full-color drawing with clear vision and sophisticated planning
3 - Meets Standard
Complete colored drawing with adequate detail showing clear planning
2 - Approaching
Basic drawing with some color but limited detail
1 - Beginning
Incomplete or unclear drawing with minimal planning
5. Feature Meaning & Justification
4 - Exceeds Standard
Every feature has deep, thoughtful explanation clearly connecting to personal identity, family, or heritage
3 - Meets Standard
All major features have clear explanations with good reflection
2 - Approaching
Some features explained but connections are weak
1 - Beginning
Few features explained with little connection to meaning
6. Cultural Appreciation vs. Appropriation
4 - Exceeds Standard
Mask is clearly INSPIRED BY African traditions, not copied. Shows sophisticated understanding of respectful cultural appreciation
3 - Meets Standard
Mask shows inspiration without direct copying. Demonstrates respectful approach
2 - Approaching
Mask shows some inspiration but may include elements too similar to traditional masks
1 - Beginning
Mask appears to copy rather than be inspired by traditional designs
7. Craftsmanship & Technical Execution
4 - Exceeds Standard
Exceptional craftsmanship with refined techniques, clean execution, and professional-quality finish
3 - Meets Standard
Good craftsmanship with solid techniques and clean execution
2 - Approaching
Basic craftsmanship with some technical issues but mask is complete
1 - Beginning
Poor craftsmanship with significant problems. Mask may be incomplete
8. Creative Use of Materials
4 - Exceeds Standard
Innovative, sophisticated use of materials. Texture and dimension enhance meaning dramatically
3 - Meets Standard
Effective use of materials with good texture and dimension
2 - Approaching
Basic use of materials with limited texture or dimension
1 - Beginning
Minimal use of materials. Flat or underdeveloped
9. Personal Identity & Meaning
4 - Exceeds Standard
Mask powerfully communicates personal story, values, and heritage. Every element contributes to a cohesive whole
3 - Meets Standard
Mask clearly communicates personal story and values
2 - Approaching
Mask attempts to show personal meaning but message is unclear
1 - Beginning
Little personal meaning evident in mask design
10. Artist Statement
4 - Exceeds Standard
Articulate, insightful statement that thoroughly explains personal story, cultural inspiration, and design choices
3 - Meets Standard
Clear statement explaining personal story, cultural inspiration, and design choices
2 - Approaching
Basic statement with minimal explanation
1 - Beginning
Incomplete statement with little reflection