Masked
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by

John Armato

Masked
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Masked
"Masked" continues Armato's exploration of digital marquetry by reproducing a design created by the artist's sister, Mary Sieker. While pursuing a degree in art she explored many media, including metal smithing and jewelry making and once made her brother a small lapel pin with black onyx inset into a metal "face." The design is reminiscent of, yet more ambiguous than, well-known foreground/background optical illusions in which one sees, perhaps, two faces, or the vase suggested between them. Here, however, the design suggests either a profile or a full-forward face with the ebony wood serving alternately as a distinct background behind the profile or a shadow falling upon the face. The title "Masked" arose from the intersection of several characteristics of the piece: The wood and basic shape are evocative of African masks, which were popular as design elements and home accents in the mid-century modern era. And the intentionally shape-shifting design created by Sieker hints at two faces, but ultimately reveals neither, effectively masking a definitive viewing of the art.
As Shown: $38.83
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Paper: Hahnemuhle Torchon
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As Customized by the Artist
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Frame: Ashland Ebony
Size: 12.3" x 14.2"
Paper: Hahnemuhle Torchon
As Shown Framed Price
$146.97
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