Isabel Cisneros: capstone

Abstract

The artist's statement: In today's society, things are put on the face in the attempt of making one look more beautiful. Facemasks and creams are used to improve skin; make up is utilized to cover up imperfections. My images take that idea to a ridiculous extreme. Not only is my intention to make mockery of this concept, they also embody concepts of mask wearing and ritual. People have always used masks and face paint on the skin for many things from beauty and ceremonial purposes to the concealment of identity. These are the intangible concepts behind the work yet it also simply addresses the physical aspect of appearance and texture of the materials and their effects on the face. My hope is that certain materials can visually make the structure of the face look different; make it appear thinner or wider, longer or shorter. There is juxtaposition between the young and old, some materials can make a younger face appear older. With my images I attempt to tie together societal expectation and historical practices in a way that transcends initial appearances.