Behind the Mask

Across the globe people use masks to transform themselves. Be inspired by our gallery displays then design and make your own mask and become an animal from the natural world. Explore how you would think, move and communicate from behind your mask.

Suitable for Level 2 (P4-7)
10:15 / 12:45 (2hrs)

What will my pupils do in the workshop?

Introduction to masks and animal powers

Explore different types of masks from around the world that are in the image of, or contain animals.
Discuss how the masks are made and what the animals represent.
Discuss what happens when you put on a mask- how you are transformed into the animal represented on the mask.

Mask design and mask making

Select and animal as inspiration for a mask.
Consider the colours, shape, textures and expression their mask will have and make a drawing of it.
Staying true to their design, make a mask of their animal using a selection of art and craft materials.

Transformation drama

Once their mask is complete, think about how they will behave when they put it on.
Think about:
- How will I stand?
- How will I move?
- Will I make any sounds?
- Am I powerful or weak?
- Am I aggressive or friendly?
Pupils will then take turns to use movement and voice to demonstrate how their animal acts.

This workshop can be complimented by a visit to our Performance and Lives gallery.

Curriculum areas and key learning outcomes

Expressive Arts
Art and Design	I have the opportunity to choose and explore an extended range of media and technologies to create images and objects, comparing and combining them for specific tasks. EXA 2-02a
	I can create and present work that shows developing skill in using the visual elements andconcepts. EXA 2-03a
	Through observing and recording from my experiences across the curriculum, I can create images and objects which show my awareness and recognition of detail. EXA 2-04a
	Inspired by a range of stimuli, I can express and communicate my ideas, thoughts and feelings through activities within art and design. EXA 2-05a
	I can develop and communicate my ideas, demonstrating imagination and presenting at least one possible solution to a design problem. EXA 2-06a
Drama	I can create, adapt and sustain different roles, experimenting with movement, expression and voice and using theatre arts technology. EXA 2-12a
	Inspired by a range of stimuli, I can express and communicate my ideas, thoughts and feelings through drama. EXA 2-13a
Citizenship	Pupils will explore and gain an understanding of how different cultures use masks.
	Pupils will compare these uses with their own experiences, helping them to gain an insight into how Scotland compares to the rest of the world.