On Display : Odes to the Mask

Coconut, and Internet, both 1997 and by Beninese artist Romuald Hazoumé. Shine, 2007 by American artist Willie Cole.

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Now showing at the MET, these and some other masks by five artists —Lynda Benglis, Willie Cole, Calixte Dakpogan, Romuald Hazoumé, and Man Ray, all who use the African mask as a catalyst for creative exploration.

Although not the focus of the exhibit, as a designer I found the recycled elements of most of the pieces particularly intriguing both as inspiration and to see how easily one can use every day items and possibly trash to make the most beautiful of things.

Please credit responsibly! Image and artwork credits: Romuald Hazoumé – Courtesy CAAC – The Pigozzi Collection, Geneva. Willie Cole – The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, Hortense and William A. Mohr Sculpture Purchase Fund, 2008 (2008.259).