Brightly coloured ceramic works – pots, vases, egg cups, cats, birds, shoes – are displayed on plinths to wonderful effect beneath wall-mounted papier mâché and bark masks. There are Venetian and tribal masks, nature masks, a “Green Monster” and a “Fox Warrior”.
Parish minister Andrew Collis acknowledged the Gadigal as sovereign carers of country, and the Earth as source of creativity and life.
Following a brief welcome and vote of thanks to artists, curators and caterers, a short theatrical performance was staged involving masked actors. Director Anna Jahjah presented a very enjoyable rendition of the satirical nonsense poem “The Owl and the Kitty Cat” (by Edward Lear) starring Norrie, Blair Silverlock and Yvonne Hocothee in the lead roles.
The playful drama demonstrated the power of masks and the power of art more generally in overcoming inhibitions and releasing empathy – imagining, even for a short while, what it’s like to be somebody else. Moreover, the experience of oneself as another can lead to greater self-awareness, encouraging openness and acceptance.
It’s a theme worthy of ongoing reflection. The questions raised by the Owl and the Kitty Cat (about love, relationship, marriage, community) may be applied on various levels to all creatures and to one another.
The curators thank Cherie Peyton at Claypool Ceramics in Botany for invaluable assistance with glazing and firing artworks.
