Sculpting Identity: The Artistry Behind Face Masks

Jase King, a Melbourne-born and Paris-based artist, creates an enchanting world full of reflection and self-discovery. Thought-provoking and mystifyingly unique, his artistic approach unveils the stories behind the captivating face sculptures. As Art Miami at Aqua Art approaches, Jase King shares some insights on his journey and new art pieces. 

hube: Your artistic journey is undoubtedly unique and layered with discussions about the duality of human nature. Could you take us back to a pivotal moment or experience that ignited your passion for art and set you on this creative path?

Jase King: If I were to rewind to that pivotal moment that set me on this creative path, it doesn’t unfold within the walls of an art gallery, but rather in a very unassuming and natural way. I find that my passion for art wasn’t sparked by external influences — it emerged as a calling and an innate desire that originated from within. It was a profound sense of internal inspiration and an inherent connection to the world of artistic expression. It wasn’t a choice; it was a recognition of a part of myself that sought to communicate, explore, and understand the complexities of human nature through the language of art.

h: The concept of face sculptures in your recent project is fascinating. How do you see the role of art in reflecting and responding to the collective experiences of our time?

JK: The role of art in reflecting and responding to the collective experiences of our time is paramount as it has a historical role in documenting the zeitgeist of an era, serving as a mirror to societal shifts, challenges, and triumphs. In the context of face sculptures, this medium becomes a vessel for capturing and expressing the shared narratives of the present.

h: Each piece of your face sculpture collection represents the ebbs and flows of your mind during confinement. How do you balance the personal and universal aspects of your art to create pieces that resonate broadly?

JK: It is a delicate yet intentional process. My aim was to create pieces that not only reflect my personal experiences but also resonate broadly, inviting all to connect with the universal themes embedded in the stories. Each sculpture is a snapshot of my journey, capturing the nuances of introspection, emotions, and self-discovery. I weave universal themes into the narratives that include emotions such as resilience, vulnerability, hope, or the shared human experience of navigating challenges and confinement. The deliberate choice to up-cycle hair from party wigs into my sculptures at that moment in history was a symbolic decision, reflecting a deep intention to immortalize the human essence. Hair, being a material that doesn’t decompose after death, serves as a poignant symbol. It acts as a reflection on the transience of life and the enduring legacy of the human spirit.

h: Your masks seem to be pushing boundaries of “the common unconsciousness” and focus on transmitting individuals’ stories by pursuing change. How does the element of theatrics play a role in the presentation of these masks, and what emotions or reactions are you aiming to evoke from the audience?

JK: In the realm of my masks, I intentionally strive to push the boundaries of what I call “the common unconsciousness,” seeking to unveil and transmit the intricate stories held within each individual. The element of theatrics in the presentation of these masks is a deliberate choice, serving as a vehicle to amplify the narratives they carry. The incorporation of mirrored acrylic frames in some of my pieces serves as more than just a structural choice—it’s a deliberate decision that transforms the sculptures into portals of reflection. These frames, acting as captivating windows into another dimension, invite viewers to engage not only with the artwork itself but also with their own reflections. Theatrics, in this context, isn’t just about performance; it’s about creating a multi-sensory experience that captivates and engages the audience. The masks, when presented theatrically, transcend mere artefacts; they become characters in a larger narrative, each with its own plot and emotional arc.

In my artistic endeavours, I strive to create an emotional journey, weaving together elements of curiosity and wonder, provocation and reflection. My primary goal is to elicit a range of emotions and responses from those who encounter my work.

The essence of curiosity and wonder is foundational in my approach. I want viewers to be drawn into a realm where each piece becomes a source of fascination, sparking a sense of inquiry and imagination. It’s about cultivating an environment that encourages exploration and contemplation. Provocation and reflection are crucial elements, as I aim to prompt thought and introspection. My art serves as a mirror, inviting individuals to delve into their own emotions and experiences, fostering a personal connection with the narratives embedded in each piece. Above all, my deepest aspiration is to evoke empathy, connection, and a shared understanding of the diverse human experiences encapsulated in each creation. By delving into the complexities of the human journey, my art becomes a universal language that transcends boundaries, fostering a sense of unity and shared humanity. In essence, my artistic mission is to craft more than just visual experiences; I aim to sculpt moments of connection, contemplation, and joy that resonate with the shared spirit of being human.