Masks Provide a Voice

           Sea Hag , collaged plaster mask
 
Masks are fascinating to me, I’ve made many…and worn many! As A trauma survivor I see the safety and detriment of them.
Masks protect and provide a way ‘to face’ the world. They can create a different identity and with that, a voice of hidden wisdom's and truths. Masks can help us know parts of us too frightened and vulnerable to exhibit in our lives.
Masks can also keep us disconnected in illusion. They make us believe we are something we aren’t, hide truths necessary for growth & peace and pretend everything is fine when it most certainly is not.
As I used art to work on healing my PTSD, mask making became my obsession. I found with each I did, when I wore it and did an internal dialog as the mask’s character…so much hidden was revealed of many feelings and observations I stored deep within. As I listened to this ‘new face’ and heard their story or concerns, I was able to see other perspectives of my own conundrum within. Listening helped determine the next step to heal and be less dissociated.
My Sea Hag mask speaks of aging gracefully, endurance, wear and tear, natural beauty and treasures.
What masks are your allies or foes??? It’s worth a look at for future peace and validation.
Art Heals!