The Magic of the Mask
An educational exhibit, “The Magic of the Mask” will open Sunday, October 16 with a reception at the Jordan River Art Center for artists and friends. Most persons when thinking of the mask, Halloween comes to mind. However, the mask has been used by man for over 30,000 years in all cultures for many different reasons. They are the most ancient means of changing identity and assuring a new persona. Masks are used to entertain, distract, provoke, inspire fear, instruct audiences, transform, project, hide, and sometimes to break rules.
The exhibit will expose this concept. The ideas of who, when, and why of the mask will be explored throughout the exhibit. The exhibit is divided into four different groups.
First, area schools were invited to participate. JRAC provided a DVD and a a study sheet. with JRAC personnel going to each school. Often supplies were given as needed. Second, some local artists were invited to participate by making a mask in their own media. Third, cultural masks of the past were loaned by persons or businesses. Fourth, protective masks as used today were collected.
Over 300 masks made by students are exhibited. Schools participating are Alba10th grade; Antrim Concord Montessori, Bellaire High and Middle school; Boyne City, 4th and 5th Grades, Central Lake, High school; East Jordan, High school; Ebenezer Christian, K through 8; Ellsworth school; Mancelona, High school.
Artists participating are: Christo Miner, Doug DeLind, Cynthia Tschudy, Julie and Joel Stoppel, Glen and Cindy McCune, Steve Toornman, Meredith Krell, John Stevens, Jacky Trimble, Sylvia Walworth, Peggy Midener, Millie Janka, Char Smith, Pat and Andy Poineau, Babs Young, and Melissa Zelanek.
Masks on loan are from East Jordan EMS and Fire Department, Raven Hill Discovery Center, East Jordan Iron Works, North West Scuba Dive Shop, Red Messa Grill, Maple Ridge Dentistry, Bonnie Burnett. Carol McCarus, Jane Diller, Peggy Midener, Brian Froud, John Stevens, Jeannie Buick, Nancy Carey, and Sylvia Walworth.
The exhibit runs through Nov. 7, open daily from 1—4 pm at the Jordan River Art Center 301 Main St., East Jordan. Guided tours with hands on experiences are available to school groups. for more information or to schedule tours contact curators, Jane Diller, 231-582-6399; or Cynthia Tschudy, 231 544-6167.
