In Between Worlds: An Integrative Art Project

I wanted to integrate my two passions: biological anthropology and Noh theater. Both, in their own ways, study what it means to be human. One from a more physiological standpoint and the other an emotional one. This year long project was developed in two phases.

Phase 1

Design Research

I designed and carved a set of masks based on our closest living relatives: the Great Apes.

Researched Noh masks, mask culture in Art History, as well as primate depiction in Asian Art
Studied Noh plays and story structure
Discussed with Biological Anthropologist experts about primates as well as visited and explored the Natural History Museum's primate collection to examine facial structures
Practiced/learned traditional Noh mask carving techniques

Phase 2

Experience Design

I used location and display setup to help convey the project's message: that the lines between the human and animal world are not concrete.

Choose display space (outside of gallery)
Collaborated with library staff to coordinate space
Designed and built display that would convey project message to viewers

Project Thesis Paper

E.Czech Senior Thesis (pdf)Download