Maskmaking
Masks offer an extraordinary opportunity for creative expression; they can completely transform the human face into something evocative, mysterious, terrifying, or humorous. Extensive instructions are given here for masks of plaster, clay, laminated paper, papier-mâché, buckram, wire, and celastic (a plastic-impregnated fabric), plus directions for final embellishments, finishing techniques, and maskmaking with children. Wonderfully diverse and marvelously creative, most of these are unfortunately shown only in black and white, though there is an eight-page color section. And there are ideas for incorporating found objects, hardware store items, and other flotsam for added interest. Theater designers, performance artists, craftspeople, and teachers--as well as dedicated Halloween revelers--will find inspiration aplenty in this useful and attractive book.--Amy Handy