Masks

MASKS. Multiple Identities from Antiquity to Contemporary Art explores the meanings of mask wearing as part of human history. Since prehistoric times, humans have felt the need to hide their identity temporarily, or to change it completely. 

The cultural-historical meanings of masquerade have varied over time in different parts of the world, but it is still popular today, as one’s own identity is constantly being shaped on digital platforms, for example. The corona virus pandemic, on the other hand, reminded people that masks are also used for protection.

MASKS examines the subject of masks from antiquity through 20th century avant-garde to contemporary art. The exhibition has borrowed works not only from art museums but also from cultural history collections, and it is curated by the Italian art historian Lorella Scacco.

Artwork image: Man Ray (Emmanuel Radnitzky), Noire et blanche, 1926 (1980), photograph, new print. Private Collection Gio´ Marconi, Milan.