Pagan Masquerade

Commissioned as both a theatrical prop and a unique display piece, this mask was designed to  capture the aesthetic of traditional papier-mâché masks while using more durable materials and  incorporating a dark fantasy, otherworldly style. The project began with a series of concept sketches  presented to the client. Following feedback, elements from multiple designs were combined and  refined into a final approved concept. 

The face was first sculpted in clay before a papier-mâché mould was created and reinforced with  multiple layers of Mod Podge for strength. Once cured, the surface was built up with air-dry clay to  create the raised forms and textures. The crown was constructed from heat-bent natural twigs, with  real nails inserted to form the thorns. The horns were sculpted from air-dry clay around foam cores  and secured using armature wire. 

The interior was custom fitted to the client's head using adjustable padding and straps. The strap  system also served as a removable mounting mechanism, allowing the mask to be displayed either  with or without the crown attached.