The Paper Mask Series
In a world where technology often dictates our actions and interactions, where virtual connections can sometimes feel more real than face-to-face ones, and where simplicity is often overlooked in favor of complexity, I strive to create art that encourages reflection and connection. By delving into themes of truth, simplicity, and minimalism, I aim to slow down the pace of life and focus on what truly matters.
Through my recent Paper Masks photography/performance art series, I hope to inspire viewers to consider their relationships with themselves, others, and the world around them. By exploring concepts of unity, harmony, and interconnectedness with nature, I seek to remind people of our shared origins and interconnectedness with all living beings and the universe. I want to create a space for contemplation on the beauty and significance of our relationship with the natural world, fostering a sense of reverence and respect for the intricate web of life that sustains us all.
Through the use of paper masks, individual identities are transcended, blurring distinctions of gender, age, race, and ethnicity, emphasizing the universal human experience.
Prior to commencing each project, I engage in extensive research and meditation. Research equips me with knowledge that informs the design and motif of the installation, serving as a wellspring of inspiration. Meditation allows me to clarify my vision, fostering a positive workflow that culminates in a finalized design. Each paper mask is meticulously conceptualized and crafted, blending the 1500-year-old ancient Chinese paper cutting tradition and origami techniques dating back to the 6th century. These masks are born from a meticulous process involving cutting, carving, folding, and molding paper, with inspiration drawn from my meditation and energy balancing practices. Through thorough research into the symbolic meanings of elements such as flowers, phoenixes, palaces, hands of hamsa, auspicious clouds, and shapes, I try to weave these motifs together, creating a visual narrative that resonates organically.