I’ve been working on a mask version of the titular character from a painting I did when I was 16 called ‘Madonna and Child’ (swipe for the original piece). When I was making the piece I was thinking a lot about the use of icons and iconography in art and religion. It can be easy to forget that those icons were actual people. I find it sad that those people’s lives are turned into tools for other people to use and take advantage of. I was trying to show those thoughts by integrating Mary and Jesus’ iconography (the color ultramarine blue, stigmata, the cross, etc.) into their bodies. Once all of the iconography they are known for is added to their physical forms, they are left looking monstrous and inhuman. Anyway, kind of a complicated concept for a mask but the character has meant a lot to me. I didn’t think the tired, dead expression on Mary would translate well so I made her more of an angry queen character. It’ll be a silicone display/ wearable piece with a big Victorian collar, acrylic eyes, punched hair and a wig. Finishing up the mold next week so more to share soon!