Contemporary Mask Cross-Cultural Narratives
This work extends the tradition of ceremonial mask-making by reinterpreting its narrative and visual language for a contemporary, cross-cultural context. While rooted in traditional forms, the mask departs from fixed mythological stories, instead presenting a fluid surface that communicates layered meanings across different cultures.
A key technique employed is the rare and traditional mother-of-pearl line inlay, created through the meticulous process of forming raised lines from a mixture of clay and natural lacquer (rak). These hand-formed lines serve as both decorative and communicative elements, outlining patterns and inscriptions that carry symbolic messages across the surface of the mask.
The integration of this endangered technique transforms the mask into a tactile and luminous object, where craftsmanship and storytelling intersect. By combining traditional processes with contemporary narratives, the work preserves a fading artisanal knowledge while expanding its expressive potential—allowing the mask to function not only as a cultural artifact, but as a universal medium of identity and interpretation.
