We are often told that regardless of our circumstances, we always have our voice. But, is this voice always best when its spoken by us? This week’s video lectures explored the usage of the mask in protest. There are many potential purposes, ranging from hiding one’s identity to show solidarity within a bigger cause to emphasizing someone’s other features or actions.
In my independent project, I am exploring how imitation can be effectively leveraged to make a point. One facet of this was acting as those opposing, preventing, or undermining climate action, such as President Trump, EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt, and Fossil Fuel executives. Masks provide an opportunity to mimic these figures, but the implications must be considered. Would the mask imply that anyone could hold the same perspectives as these anti-environment leaders? Would it serve for comedic purposes? Would it negate our impact by focusing on the responsible individuals rather than the systems which they are partaking in?
Despite their complexities, masks may support my “Make Fossil Fuels Great Again” mock rally.