Paper mache and shell powder (gofun as used in Noh Masks.)

Sha Sha Higby: In 1971, I went to Japan for a year, studying calligraphy, tea ceremony, and Noh Theater.  I learned primarily the making of Noh masks, a lifelong training that I only put a year into. It transformed my life. I made this mask with the guidance of my teacher.  The student learns by copying the master without questions. To study properly, a student needs to study a lifetime to comprehend the emotions of each mask. The surface is built up with layers of shell powder (different grades) ground together for hours with a form of animal glue, then painted for up to 50 layers, sanding every 4 layers, a kind of gesso. I did not learn the technique to completion but used it repeatedly over wood or paper mache in my sculptures. I also researched a similar technique of traditional painting for masks and hide puppets in Indonesia.

Here is some of the work that resulted from the experience: