In the spring of 2021, I delved into creating even more masks, starting with this beautiful Kitsune mask.
A Kitsune is a mythical fox from Japanese folklore, often depicted as a magical being with the ability to shapeshift. Kitsune are known for their intelligence and cunning, and they are considered messengers of the rice deity Inari. Traditionally, they are portrayed as having nine tails, with each tail symbolizing increasing age, wisdom, and power. In many stories, a Kitsune can transform into a beautiful woman, often leading to tales of love, trickery, and mystique. They are often depicted in traditional masks, and I wanted to put my own spin on this enchanting figure.
Crafting the fox was a bit challenging at first. When I was around nine or ten, I made a donkey mask that had a similar structure, particularly in the long noses. However, that was years ago, and I had to relearn many techniques. I constructed the nose and ears using sturdy cardboard after forming the base with plaster.
Unfortunately, I only have one picture of the process, and the full beauty of the mask can only be appreciated in a video. You can find a short clip showcasing the entire process on my Instagram account.
So yeah… meet my beautiful Kaiyo!
Rexy's Art 