Hand-carved African masks, made by students in Mark W. Wilson's Wood Sculpture class, are on display until mid-December on the second floor of the Madigan Library.
Students in Mark W. Wilson’s Wood Sculpture class at Pennsylvania College of Technology recently completed work on African masks that will be on display on the second floor of the Madigan Library until the second week of December. The graphic design instructor said the intensive eight-week project explored African tribal art through hands-on craftsmanship.
The assignment began with each student researching a specific African tribe and presenting their findings to the class. They then drew from traditional patterns and forms, creating small sketches with which to experiment. These early steps were then transferred into clay to explore depth and layering, which would be the models used to create full-scale templates.
Using only basic tools, such as gouges and mallets, the class carved their designs by hand over several weeks, gradually transforming pine blocks into expressive sculptural masks. The finished works were sanded and embellished with metal accents, nails and stains to highlight contrast and texture.
“The ART142 course truly embodies the meaning of ‘made by hand,’” Wilson said. “For many participants, this was their first experience both designing and executing a piece entirely through traditional carving techniques. The students gain more insight into the world of sculpting by using traditional tools. Ultimately, we live in a world of instant gratification. Working with your hands and traditional tools gives the student a greater sense of accomplishment.”
To learn more about Penn College’s art classes, call 570-327-4521 or visit www.pct.edu/art.
For information about Penn College, a national leader in applied technology education, visit www.pct.edu, email admissions@pct.edu or call toll-free 800-367-9222.
