Students were also introduced to the ancient art of repoussé. Repoussé means to indent metal. Students combined working with metal to create their own mask. They incorporated some of the general elements they noticed that many of the Afrcan masks contained. Students chose betwee several different techniques to create symmetry in the features on their mask. After working the metal from both sides, students colored their masks with sharpies, and then added additional elements to finish the mask. We discussed how masks might be displayed in a museum. Students created unique bases out of air dry clay, a craft stick and metallic paint to use for displaying their masks.
They topped off all their hard work with an artist statement. Students are so proud of their masks and their art has generated lots of interest among the younger students as well as the teachers! Can't wait to get these in our display case!