Queen Jubilee, Sylvia Schieber, 2020, mixed media, 37 x 16.5 x 10 in. / 93.98 x 41.91 x 25.4 cm.

Exploring Identity and Tradition: The Masks of Sylvia Schieber

August 27, 2024 Gavin Coates

Featured image: Queen Jubilee, Sylvia Schieber, 2020, mixed media, 37 x 16.5 x 10 in. / 93.98 x 41.91 x 25.4 cm.

Sylvia Schieber's work is a mesmerizing exploration of identity, tradition, and contemporary expression through her vibrant and intricate mixed media masks.

Sylvia Schieber is a contemporary mixed media artist known for her intricate masks that blend traditional and modern techniques using textiles and found objects. Her work explores themes of identity, cultural heritage, and transformation, offering a fresh perspective on contemporary art.

Each piece in her collection encapsulates a blend of cultural motifs and modern art practices, inviting viewers to delve into the complex narratives woven into each design. The use of textiles, found objects, and upcycled materials not only highlights Schieber's commitment to sustainability but also adds layers of meaning to her already richly textured art.

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"Jaro" (2022)

Jaro, Sylvia Schieber, 2022, mixed media, 23.5 x 16.5 x 10 in. / 59.69 x 41.91 x 25.4 cm.

"Jaro" stands as a testament to Schieber's mastery in merging traditional craft techniques with contemporary aesthetics. The piece's use of vibrant blue and orange hues, coupled with the intricate layering of textures, evokes a sense of both protection and celebration. The mask’s structure, featuring dramatic pom-poms and flowing ribbons, creates a dynamic interplay of color and movement, suggesting themes of ritual and performance. Schieber’s ability to transform everyday materials into something otherworldly demonstrates her skill in manipulating both form and meaning.

"Puddles" (2021)

Puddles, Sylvia Schieber, 2021, mixed media, 13 x 17 x 10 in. / 33.02 x 43.18 x 25.4 cm.

In "Puddles," Schieber crafts a more subdued yet equally compelling narrative. The mask’s softer color palette and rounded shapes contrast with the sharpness found in some of her other works. The eyes, made from upcycled objects, lend an eerie yet inviting gaze, drawing the viewer into a contemplative space. The tactile quality of the mask, with its fringes and beads, offers a sensory experience that goes beyond the visual, making "Puddles" a work that engages multiple senses. The piece is a reflection on fluidity, identity, and the way we perceive ourselves and others.

"Ceren" (2022)

Ceren, Sylvia Schieber, 2022, mixed media, 45 x 16.5 x 10 in. / 114.3 x 41.91 x 25.4 cm.

"Ceren" is perhaps the most intricate of the three, with its elaborate embroidery and vibrant colors demanding attention. The mask’s elongated form and the meticulous detail in the stitching create a sense of reverence and power. The use of found objects, such as buttons and fabric scraps, not only ties the piece to the everyday but also elevates these materials into something sacred. "Ceren" is a celebration of cultural heritage, reinterpreted through Schieber’s unique artistic lens. The piece challenges the viewer to consider the intersections of tradition, modernity, and the role of the artist in bridging these worlds.

Sylvia Schieber's masks are more than just art objects; they are vessels of cultural commentary and personal expression. Each piece invites the viewer to explore themes of identity, tradition, and transformation, making her work not only visually striking but also deeply thought-provoking. Through her innovative use of mixed media, Schieber continues to push the boundaries of contemporary art, offering a fresh perspective on the role of materials, craftsmanship, and the stories we tell through art.

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