Anna Aldridge

My project within the Better Lives unit was Mask Making and Politics. Our project outcome was to create a mask as a form of protest or political activism. Creating something of importance was a vital aspect of the design principle. 

I decided to make a mask to protest animal hunting, campaigning for animal rights. The first step was to investigate the history of masks. Masks are known for being used in protest, as well as within performance. In Greek theatre, masks communicated character. Another interesting idea about masks is that they are used heavily within the horror film genre. Whilst researching, I discovered similar animal rights campaigns and came across the Lush ‘Votes for Animals’ campaign. It was important to research similar projects, in order to determine how aspects of my masks will differ. Initially, I wanted my mask to be created as a realistic rabbit, however after researching I decided that a more simplistic mask would be more impactful within the process. As well as this, a simple design would be easy to replicate. When researching other political masks, many of them followed the similarities of being uncomplicated in their design. 

My skills in mask making developed throughout the project, using clay and tools to shape my design. I was unable to complete my mask, however I conceptualised the final project outcome. The project was shaped around exploring the Better Lives theme of Social Responsibility. Not only this, but the theme Sustainability was also worked within my use of materials, as I decided to create a mask out of reusable materials. Exploring manufacture processes was essential, and my initial design was going to be created using paper. I thought it would be interesting to play with the size of my mask, creating a distorted oversized effect. Due to its lightweight material, this could easily be achieved, and would stand out in a crowd. 

Overall, I am pleased with the project outcome. In the future, I would love to complete the final product. At first, I was concerned about the outcome of my mask, however once I began using the clay it became an enjoyable process. In terms of my personal development, my knowledge of masks throughout history has developed, as well as their importance within society. An important aspect of this Better Lives project was to continue to develop and reflect on work, and this brief was the perfect opportunity to do so. 

As a Fashion Journalism student, it is vital that the themes of Sustainability, Diversity and Social Responsibility are central to my work ethic and will change how I work in the future. 

My project of Mask Making and Politics has primarily focused on Social Responsibility. Our task was to create a mask as a form of protest or political activism. Activities such as these prove just how much fashion can have a great influence in society. Fashion also has a social responsibility though design, to be relatable, comfortable and to prove itself that the product will be beneficial to the consumer. Social media can influence the well-being of an individual, and the fashion industry has a responsibility to ensure that they remove the pressure placed upon body-image and self-esteem.  

As a Fashion Journalist representation is vital. Not only this, the topic of inclusivity and diversity is vital within the fashion industry. Brands such as Fenty Beauty are leaders of the conversation, helping the beauty industry to emphasise inclusivity and diversity. However, there is progress to be made. For the future of my work, it is important to continue to focus on representation. Incorporating inclusive principles is crucial to challenging preconceptions. 

With leaders such as Greta Thunberg charging the movement, it is vital that we all make changes towards a more sustainable future. In the fashion world, designers such as Marine Serre are leaders in sustainability, creating clothes out of reusable material. Many designers are also taking the initiative to have a sustainability goal for the future. However, products such as denim can never be 100% sustainable, due to the chemicals and water usage used to create it. Fast fashion is also a big issue in the industry, as clothing is being produced at a dramatic rate. As a consumer, the best option towards a more sustainable future in fashion is to shop second hand, avoid fast-fashion and look for brands who re-use their materials. This theme of Sustainability will change how I work in the future of Journalism, continuing to cover topics about sustainability. 

In conclusion, the Better Lives themes are vital to the practices of Fashion Journalism. It was a great opportunity to challenge creative processes. In the future, I want to continue to discuss these themes and allow them to shape my work.