Art 2 Clay Mask Project

Objective: To create a 3-D piece of artwork. Students will become technically proficient
in the use of clay, and understand clay terminology. They will use different media and
techniques expressively. Understand that visual arts have a history, purpose and
function in all cultures. Invent original, personal imagery without copying.

Presentation: Look at examples of clay masks from different colors. Review clay terms,
practices and techniques.

Research: Select a culture to research and base mask off of. Masks should be
representation of a culture’s style and history NOT COPIES. Research requires online
sources and physical BOOKS as sources. Complete research sheet to be turned in
with project.

Sketches: 6 4x5 sketches. Two different mask ideas drawn 3 different viewpoints.
THIS IS A 3-D PIECE YOU NEED TO DRAW IT FROM 3 DIFFERENT ANGLES.
Color 2 of the sketches.
Idea #1 Idea # 2
Viewpoint 1 Viewpoint 1
Viewpoint 2 Viewpoint 2
Viewpoint 3 Viewpoint 3

Construction: Students roll slabs that are ½ inch thick and lay on to an armature.
Students place slabs and armature on to a board and keep them there until fired.
Students carve, add, stamp, and mold their masks into the appropriate forms. When
finished slabs should be left out to dry. Dried slabs will be fired once and then glazed.
Glazed slabs will be fired a second time and then turned in with a critique and research
sheet.

Grading Criteria
● Student completed research and sketches
● Student rolled slabs to correct thickness
● Student created features on mask that match cultural research
● Student scored and slipped all additional clay
● Student wedged old clay to ensure no air bubbles
● Student’s mask is neat and well made
● Student incorporated textured areas as well as smooth areas
● Student managed time well and met deadlines
CLAY MASK RESEARCH SHEET (Cite your sources)
2 Book References and Citations:

Any Website References and Citations:

1. Culture selected for research:

2. Definition of culture:

3. Geographic location(s) of culture:

4. Time period, when did it start, is it still present today?

5. (3 sentences) How are masks used in this culture? (Ceremony, festivals etc.)

6. Who wears masks in the culture? Why?

7. Five interesting facts about your culture:

ON THE BACK OF THIS PAGE PAST 5 REFERENCE IMAGES WITH CITATIONS