Mixed Media Mask

Some projects carry the motto "the inkier and messier the better".  This is one such.  It is a paper mâché mask that for the past few days has had stuff chucked at it.

Now if you have used Glimmer Mists or similar sprays over the years you will know how they clog.  It just happens that even leaving them alone for a couple of years does not unclog them so some sort of testing was required.  The starting point then was layer and layers of spray paints.    When it was dry acrylic stamps were applied, you have to use these without a mounting block and carefully push them around the curve of the mask.  Sprinkle with embossing powder and add heat.  I used 2 different kinds of embossing powder for this step.  On to Cosmic Shimmer fine paint and some eyelashes frame the eye sockets more of this paint traced the outline of the mouth.  More paint Silver Alchemy wax down the side of the nose.  Rose Quartz Treasure gold over the mouth, and the gold embossing already there.

Time to start adding dimension.  Ferreted out the remains of some altered glue from years ago.  Altered glue? on a plastic sheet layout lines and random shapes in pva glue  sprinkle embossing powder over the wet glue and set aside too dry.  Once the glue has set carefully lift the plastic and recover the excess embossing powder.   Use your heat gun to melt the embossing powder that is attached to the glue at this stage you have a choice.  You can use the heat to melt away the plastic between the glue strips so you end with a tattered cobweb effect of embossed glue and plastic, or carefully peel the glue strips away from the plastic to use as independent embellishments as I have here.  i have also used this technique with alcohol inks (but without the need to use heat).

It was around this time that the theme of this mask became clear, it is an homage to an archaeological dig.  Torn pieces of decoupage tissue stuck to various edges suggesting a torn wrapping, and a butterfly stamped on vellum rests just about the mouth on the altered glue beauty spot.   More glimmer mist.   Touches of Viva Gloss-Gel and we are ready for the final touches.   Magazine cover stamps used with Brilliance "Lightning Black" spell out TIME across the forehead.  The same ink on Tattered Angles clock face and hands randomly used on the face.

Showed it to the chef (my son) explained the archaeology idea to him to which he replied "You nailed it".  I wonder what other people will make of it.

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