Relief Sculpture Masks

This was a lesson in symmetry and texture. We used a new medium, heavy gauge aluminum, although heavy duty aluminum foil also works.  My students were also excited to use acrylic metallic paints which produced some pretty exciting results.  We began by drawing a mask form on one side of the drawing paper using heavy pencil lines. When folded in half the image was easily transferred to the opposite side of the paper. The next step was to press the design onto the aluminum using a pencil. Padding was placed under the aluminum which helped to create a raised surface. Texture was created using Popsicle sticks or blunt pencils.  When the students were pleased with their design black ink was brushed over the surface.  A steel wool pad was used to remove the ink from the raised surfaces of the design.  The metallic paint was finally applied to bring the mask design to life.