My body of work, Masked Identity: Faces of Destruction reveals an apocalyptic scenario in which humanity is divided into various socio-economic stations through necessary masking, stripping away individual identities to the detriment of society. In order to survive an atmospheric catastrophe, different social classes were forced to work with the skill sets and resources they had. Soon each group developed their own characteristics, revealing deeper symbolism that mirrors a type of masking experienced in today’s culture. The division of communities led to the breakdown of civilization, repeating the cycle of destruction of past historical empires; a cautionary lesson we should take to heart.

The scarce resources of the Deprived segment of society required them to tap into their innovative, creative mindsets, repurposing found objects to create protective masks from a toxic atmosphere. These shroud-like masks conceal all human features resulting in the appearance of an eerie sub-human creature, representing the struggle of dehumanization that inherently coincides with this deprived station in society. Similar to the Deprived, the Laborers’ masks have few features but are oriented towards functionality and durability. They represent the ideology of the workers who are consumed with endless labor, revealing only shadows of what is behind the mask. In contrast to the previous divisions, the masks of the Aristocrats represent a class that is controlled by those with limitless resources who preserve the facade expected of a higher social order. Having a human-like appearance, each mask conveys a unique image of perfection to impress and influence others, epitomizing aristocracy. Alongside these stations are the Militant Peacekeepers whose faction’s creed focuses on law and order, but they struggle to prevent anarchy in a fraying civilization. The helmets embody the strength and perseverance of this vital part of society.

Masking Identity: Faces of Destruction conveys a narrative of survival that demanded the sacrifice of individual identity; replacing it with socio-economic categories that divided and ultimately ruptured society. My painting depicts the scenario brought on by the identity-erasing masks. The Deprived and the Laborers experienced dehumanization and struggled to survive which led to conflict and ruin represented by the crumbling buildings. The surreal urban landscape pushes the boundaries of beauty amid destruction and hardship, causing the viewer to experience conflicted feelings about the imagery. While the painting exposes the destructive element of obscuring individuality, the masks bring awareness to the symbolic “masking” that exists in today’s culture: The elite Aristocrats display a pretense of perfection; the Militant Peacekeepers exhibit the facade of strength and power; the overwhelmed Laborers cannot focus on themselves; and the Deprived risk being categorized, dehumanized, and discarded. My goal for this exhibit is to create an experience for the viewer that challenges them to reflect on what masks they wear and the consequences to their own identity and society at large.