Face Off: The Provocation and Possibilities of Masks and Head Coverings

Dr Benjamin Wild & Dr Elizabeth Kealy-Morris

Face Off brought together an international group of academics, artists, curators and fashion practitioners to reflect on the longstanding physical and psychological importance that face masks and head coverings have for many of the world’s cultures.

Between 13 and 14 January 2021, speakers from six different countries, including Canada, Italy and Russia, discussed the diverse roles and meanings of masks and head coverings within seven thematic panels that included consideration of their functionality, performativity and virtuality. Hosted by two of the Institute’s senior lecturers, Dr Benjamin Wild and Dr Elizabeth Kealy-Morris. 

Full event details

Event Archive

Project Leads

Dr Benjamin Wild

Dr Benjamin Wild

Senior Lecturer (Critical & Contextual)

Dr Elizabeth Kealy-Morris

Dr Elizabeth Kealy-Morris

Senior Lecturer in Fashion Communication and Culture

Volker Hermes, ‘Hidden Mengs’, 2020
Composite image of masks and head coverings, British Library (out of copyright).
Lee Miller, ‘Women in Fire Masks’, 1941

Outputs

Symposium; edited book; AHRC research network bid in process