Rachael Koelker 3D Blog: Masked Identity

Masked Identity

A Quiet Soul

Materials: Cardboard, wire, black tape, sealing glue, hot glue, fabric

Dimensions: 18 in. X 20 in. X 5.25 in.

Artist Statement:

The main structure of this piece is the shape of a sheep skull. My name, Rachael, is translated to mean “ewe,” which is another word used for a female sheep. I can relate to being a sheep as I find the creature to be quiet and sensitive to me. I do not like to make a big commotion, but if I get stressed out to a point, then that is when I will release my loud voice and disturb the peace. Similar to how a sheep is only quiet until they are in danger, where they will cry out. While I also find sheep to be sensitive because of their timid nature and gentle looks. I am a sensible person, I try my best to toughen up, but it is hard for me to be strong when I hurt someone else feelings or see someone else in pain. Being sensible has its positives and negatives, it just depends how you use it.

I made it the skull of the sheep because of my interest in collecting animal remains such as bones and furs. I would not define myself to be a morbid person, as I am someone who always wants to look on the bright and lively side of life. But the idea of skulls and death have always poked at my interests. As someone who believes in God, I do always wonder “where will we go when we are done in this realm?” I always seem to come up with fantasy ideas of what the afterlife could be. Its one of the many ways where I can express my original ideas and stories, one of the few things that classify me as an artist.

I stick with the color black for the mask because it’s the color that sticks out the least to me. Usually, black is used to outline what you want to see pop, but when it is alone, it looks like it disappears into a void. The black color hides me as I am an awkward introvert, who does not like to show off or be noticed. I’ll only show my true self if I let you in, so only when the mask comes off you will get to see who I really am. I try my best to come out of the mask and associate myself with others, but I always return back to my mask. There are times when I feel like it is all right to speak, and other times, I do not feel like speaking at all.

To hide from the outside world, I covered the inside and back with fabric fur. I wanted to make sure none of my face or head was visual while wearing the mask. The fabric fur acts as a comfort for me. Having something warm and soft against my face or body relieves me of my stress and worries. The fur can also muffle sound, making it hard for me to hear any noises outside. I do not enjoy loud noises as it can break not concentration or interfere with the sounds in my head. I like the quiet because it lets me think. It lets me be able to hear my own thoughts inside my head which can help me control my feelings and stay calm.

Process Photos