James Melville Corey
Artist Statement
July 2025
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I've made over 1600 masks since March 2019! Please look through the gallery. Welcome to a universe.
I learned how to make leather masks in the Commedia dell'Arte tradition in Florence in 2018, mentored by master mask maker Roberto Andrioli. That's when this enormous body of work began. In 2024, I was honored to return to Florence and learn the art of paper mache techniques from the masters of Florentine mask making - Alice Dessi, with mentoring from her father Agostino. This experience has fueled me. I am making new masks every day. Once I finish one, I start the next.
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As an artist, I believe that each of us is a universe in ourselves, each of us a cosmos of thoughts, emotions, and experiences. My work explores the concept of masks, which are the personas we present to the world. These masks are not just facades; they are a reflection of our inner selves, our joys and passions, our desires, and our fears. They are how we choose to interact with the world around us.
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However, behind these masks lie our shadows, the parts of ourselves that we hide from others and sometimes even from ourselves. These shadows are the aspects of our personality that we may find difficult to accept or understand. In my art, I strive to lift these shadows into the light, to witness them and embrace them. This process of bringing the hidden parts of ourselves into the open is a journey towards wholeness and self-acceptance. This is the process of Individuation as described by Carl Jung.
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We are all universes coexisting, each with our own unique masks and shadows, creative outlets, and experiences.
​​​Through my art, I hope to inspire others to explore their own masks and shadows to find the courage to lift their shadows into the light and to embrace their true selves.
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I also encourage everyone to find your unique creative talent, start doing it now, and continue to do it every day. It heals us all.
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Daily updates plus random fun videos of nightly mask making : jamescoreyartdotcom on Instagram.
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​​Love,​​​
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Jim
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