The masks which I sell here are made through a process of my own creation. Instead of coming up with a design, making a mold of that design, and then casting several masks from that mold I do almost the opposite. The only mold used is a mold of a human face or a wig head used on the inside, upon which I sculpt the design I have in my head. Each mask is sculpted by hand, even those in a numbered series. So each one is unique, with its own personality and character.
     I begin by covering a base (either a mold of a face or a wig head) with tin foil. I then take paper mache and apply it to the base. I use a combination of sculpting tools and my fingers to sculpt the design which I am working on. Some designs also involve imbedding wire or wooden dowels into the paper mache as part of the mask. Other times a mask must be made in stages if one part of it needs to be sanded smooth before another part is attached. The process is very fluid and can change at any time; if one design isn't working the mask becomes something else. Most of my designs evolve entirely on their own; taking shape on the base as I begin to sculpt without my knowing beforehand what I will make. My hands tend to have plans of their own. But some of the more elaborate designs are sketched out on paper first, especially if there are any engineering details to be worked out such as how to attach a full back headdress or horns without over balancing the piece. Once the mask is sculpted it takes several days to dry. Depending upon how much paper mache is used it can take between 2 and 10 days. After it is dry it is removed from the base and any sanding needed is done. Then the back is smoothed with more paper mache to make it comfortable to wear, and the side ribbons are attached. If the mask is on a stick, then that is added at the time of sculpting so that it is imbedded in the paper mache and a part of the mask. Then the entire mask is painted with gesso and allowed to dry fully. The mask is then painted with either acrylic or oil paints, according to what the design calls for, and sometimes is covered with other materials such as gold or silver leaf, or fine fabrics. All painted masks are sealed with an acrylic spray to protect the design and provide a  rich, glossy finish. It is decorated, again according to the design, with a variety of embellishments, such as Austrian crystals, rhinestones, semi-precious stones, peacock or ostrich feathers, silk ribbons, etc. The last step is to sign, title, and number each piece. Once it is finished, the mask is surprisingly sturdy, and very lightweight. Perfect for wearing to that midnight masquerade.....