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27"W x 44"H Framed Oil and Acrylic on Pet Cone. Signed by the Artist.
This body of work explores the role of the mask and reverses its purpose. Traditionally, a mask is worn over the face to hide something. This can either be to conceal the wearer's identity or to cover up unsightly features; however, in my paintings, the mask reveals information instead of hiding it. The masks become representative of the characteristics of the wearer's soul or personality. Each hints at some inner strength or flaw of the person being depicted, and the traits that were wished to be kept secret are now the focus of the portrait and revealed by the mask. I also draw influence from the fact that throughout the ages the eyes have been called the windows to the soul. Since I am dealing with the characteristics or archetypes of people's souls, it is for this reason I always leave the eyes open to the pattern as if the viewer can peer straight into it. They are empty inside because their innermost being is on public display; there is nothing left to hide. I also wanted to incorporate the animal and cone theme, so I decided on the cat mask and the Victorian style neck ruffle as references for that. -A. Hurst
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