First Nation inspired clay mask

We kicked off the "Hello Vancouver" spring break camp creating mask inspired by the First Nation. It seemed quite appropriate when being inspired by our beautiful city to remember the people whose land we share.

I shared with the kids the traditional shapes they would find in First Nation art, along with a wide variety of samples of different animals created by First Nation artist. I also shared the symbolism behind each animal and we discussed the limited use of color the works.. Using that information as a jumping off point, we also discussed how in other cultures we use animals to symbolize different traits and powers.

Like in Harry Potter, a novel series very popular with this age group and easily relatable to the kids. Harry Potter's stag was a quick way to help them recognize the concept.

Then we discussed animals local to our city. What powers might they possess? What animals did they feel represented them? Or maybe held powers of protection?

Then with one last reminder that we were not necessarily creating traditional First Nation mask but using the art form as inspiration for our own interpretation, I handed out some oven baked clay in white.

8 year old, eagle

Using their kneecap as a base, they began to shape the clay and add the features they wanted to highlight the animal of their choosing.

eagle, 8 year old

cat, 8 year old

When the were happy with their mask, I gave them an opportunity to add holes in order to put raffia through when finished. Only one artist wanted to do this step. Then we put them in the oven to bake.

owl, 10 year old

When they were cooled, which takes about 15 minutes in the freezer, each child used red and black paint to add accent color....or in one case, color the entire animal!

owl, 11 year old

I am so pleased with the results, aren't they stunning?  Each mask is a personal reflection of the artist, of an animal that has some significance to them. I think they reflect each child perfectly.