Natasha Lehrer
"Sophie’s Mask"
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| (Photos by Patrick Fraser) |
This mask tells the story of how our life experiences add various layers on our mask. Inside, the colors represent light, faith, serenity, and passion. These emotions shape our thoughts, our perspective and our drive for life. These shades also reflect some of the harshness in our character that shape us as well: greed, jealousy, anger or indifference that can affect every aspect of our interactions yet are hidden on the inside. Wearing this mask projects only what we choose to reveal.
We see the inner soul shining out through the eyes: one is stronger and more brilliant, other clouded by the mask. Wrinkles and creases form in the fabric around the eyes and forehead, years of worry writing their story upon the mask. There are tearstains on the cheeks from hurts. The lace represents an outward grace that we put on, full of poise and dignity. Even the mouth is covered in light layers of lace and silk, as we realize how essential it is to let our words mask our inner light.
At the edge of the mask, the fabrics become heavier and more layered. These small bits of memory are added with time, experiences, and lessons that shape who we are. Their varying textures and shades of white add dimension and interest to the mask. Our masks are never finished, but an evolving piece of who we are.
Gleaming, shimmering and reflective beads draw your attention to the inner soul like sunbeams dancing, raindrops lingering, and glory radiating. Let’s focus on the light melting through our mask’s layers.