Think about masks you have seen or worn. What kind of balance does the mask in Figure 16–1show? In many cultures, masks are made from available materials and have formal balance to express the idea, mood, and purpose of the mask. The Yaw are people of Africa created the mask shown in Figure 16–1. It was carved from wood that was polished to a high sheen. Notice the arrangement, textures, and kinds of shapes the artist used for facial features and details on the mask. Some
shapes are geometric while others are freeform. Can you find examples of each?
Figure 16–1
Africa. Yaware People. Face Mask. Early twentieth century. Wood. 50.8 3 22.8 cm (20 _ 9”). Private Collection.