Mask Making From Around the World (Part 4)

Practice mask construction in this art lesson: mask making from around the world (part 4).

🎨 Studio Brief #39

Design and build a mask inspired by mask traditions from different cultures: African, Japanese, Venetian, or Native American.

🎯 Your mission

If it cracks, that's part of the story.

⚡ The twist

No tools — just your hands.

What you'll learn

Design and build a mask inspired by mask traditions from different cultures: African, Japanese, Venetian, or Native American. Masks are used in ceremonies, theater, and celebrations worldwide.

Get ready

Techniques you'll practise

mask constructioncultural artsculptural decoration

You will need

Modeling toolsCardboardWire (thin gauge)Air-dry clay

Step 1 of 4

Research mask traditions from one culture. Sketch your mask design on paper first.

Step 2 of 4

Form the base from a paper plate, cardboard, or papier-mâché over a balloon.

Step 3 of 4

Cut eye holes and shape the nose and mouth. Add features with layered cardboard or clay.

Step 4 of 4

Decorate with paint, feathers, fabric, beads, or natural materials. Consider symmetry and symbolism.

Did you know?

🤯 Mind = Blown

🤯 Clay shrinks about 10% when it dries. Plan for it.

🌟 Artist Spotlight

🎨 Ruth Asawa wove sculptures out of wire she learned to bend in a kids' camp.

You did it!

Next: Slab-Built Box or Container (Part 4)All lessons

🎯

Next Smart Project

We'll pick an art project that matches exactly where your skills are right now.

✨ More to explore

🌍 Where you see this: Pots, cups, sinks, statues — anything you can hold started as squishy stuff.

🏆 Try this week: Make a tiny clay creature. Give it a name and a story.

👨‍👩‍👧 At dinner: “Tell me about the part of your sculpture you're proudest of.”

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Mask Making From Around the World (Part 4)

Techniques you'll practise

You will need

Next Smart Project

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Mask Making From Around the World (Part 4)

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