Haida Masks

Students will recognize and be able to construct a mask incorporating into it Haida ovoid shapes.

Note: An ovoid shape is the characteristic shape used in most B.C. coastal First Nations art. Another characteristic shape is the U-form. These two basic shapes are combined together in various ways to make representations of objects and animals which are often difficult to recognize. However, this combination of simple shapes and complex designs creates a unique and distinctive style which is much admired around the world.

Prior to the actual mask making, discussion and use of ovoids should have been practiced in imitation of Haida art (see Explorations Teacher's Guide). There should have been some discussion of animals and spirits pertinent to the Haida.

Students draw a rough pattern of an animal incorporating into it some of the ovoid shapes.

Students bring plastic bags, twist ties -kitchen garbage bag size - and newspapers to school. Working in pairs, students fill bag with bunched newspapers until a rounded shape is achieved. Tie with twist tie. Shred paper in long strips. One student holds bag while the other covers with newspaper strips soaked in mixed wallpaper paste. When shape is completely covered, students switch over and repeat process to insure adequate coverage. If possible, hang by twist ties to a line so shapes do not flatten while drying (leave approximately 1 week).

Using scissors, cut shape in half beginning at twist tie opening, and continuing all the way around the shape. Discard inner bag, leaving each student with half ofthe shape which now becomes their mask base.

Referring to pre-drawn pattern, cut out eye, nose, and mouth holes (the latter two only if desired).

Again keeping ovoids in mind, students build up facial features on mask using depressed segments of paper rolls or pieces of newspaper folded into strips and fastened with masking tape. Once the desired ovoid has been reached, fasten onto base with masking tape.

Using more strips and wallpaper paste, cover over all of these features, through the holes to the wrong side of the mask to insure that they are all secure and blend in smoothly with the whole mask. Two coats is advised. Allow masks to dry for 5-7 days.

Using thick tempra, paint the whole outside of the mask in one colour. Allow to dry. Highlight features with accent colours, again emphasizing the ovoid shapes. Allow to dry. Rafia may be added as a final touch.

Display on a totem pole structure, or as a wall display. They are very effectively displayed accompanied with a Haida button blanket, which can be made as a class project.

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