The inspiration behind my mask designs for this competition was based on my research and fascination into the Spanish flu pandemic of 1918. I was drawn to the similarities of the people who lived over 100 years ago and our lives today. Looking thru photos from 1918, I was surprised at how the people suddenly looked modern to me. I loved reading the stories and old letters that were suddenly sought after by people digging through old family memorabilia and found by family members who had an ancestor who was alive at that time. I was amazed at how so many aspects repeated itself, and how many of the same concerns we have today, they had back then. While there are so many people today that willingly wear facemasks, there are also many people who do not. Even back in 1918, they formed an "anti-mask League" as there were many people that resisted being told they had to wear a mask, people were arrested for not wearing a mask and schools, movie houses and pretty much everything was closed down, just as today.
My "Full Circle" mask was inspired by the Spanish Flu Pandemic of 1918, where I printed on fabric- pictures of old posters, photos of people living at that time wearing their masks, and news articles from the Spanish Flu Pandemic, even a photo from the "Anti-Mask League". I also hand embroidered a long windy line and arrows that connect the years 1918 to 2020 as I believe we have come full circle. The shape of this mask is very abstract, avant-garde, with a long pointy, comical, in your face look.
Mask: Printed 100% Cotton, Swarovski Crystals
Filter: Pellon
Straps: Elastane
