Masks and the Art of Expression

Discusses the traditions and mythologies associated with 150 masks from diverse cultures, including a Cameroon elephant mask, a Japanese No theater mask, Oceanic masks of feathers, shells, and wood, and South American masks carved of stone

A mask is a mask, or is it? A visual feast of 150 remarkable objects is an integral feature of this expansive survey delving into the rich and complex traditions that have determined uses and meanings of masks from countless archaic cultures right up to modern-day festivals. An imposing, highly sculptural elephant mask of the Cameroon exists in marked contrast to the relatively restrained but highly expressive Japanese No theater masks. Materially enchanting Oceanic masks adorned with feathers, shells, or bark cloth are constructed of intricate basketry and carved wood, and Central and South American masks encrusted with rare stones are cast or carved of solid jade or stone. Ethnographic scholars elaborate on rituals and mythologies associated with these wondrous masks in this articulate and provocative inquiry. Alice Joyce