SUNY Fredonia will present a special workshop series called Faces of Peace that “brings together peace-making with mask-making” on Saturday, April 30 and Sunday, May 1 in rooms 320 and 321 of the Rockefeller Arts Center.
Faces of Peace will consist of four interactive workshops presented by local artist and activist Valerie Walawender, who is noted for her nationally recognized diversity and peace-making program.
Co-organized by SUNY Fredonia Psychology Professor Bruce Klonsky, the workshops are the final event in the 2010-11 Convocation Series, Faces and Phases of Creativity, as well as a continuation of the campus’ Healing Arts programs.
Faces of Peace will explore using and making masks as a means of reaching positive, constructive goals such as self discovery and personal growth. The masks are used to spark creativity, humor, safe expression of feelings and increased understanding which will result in inner and societal peace.
The April 30 workshops will begin with a role-play and discussion program, “Exploring Faces of Peace,” from 9 a.m. to noon. A second program, “Dimensions of Identity,” will follow from 1 to 4 p.m., during which participants will create their masks. On May 1 the workshops begin with “Transformational Masks” from 9 a.m. to noon and “Creating Self” from 1 to 4 p.m., which both consist of mask making.
The events are free and open to the public. The workshop sizes are limited, so those interested must pre-register by calling 716-673-3129 or e-mailing Sharon Markham.
“Masks are such a great way for an individual to discover aspects of one’s self,” says Walawender. “We are always wearing masks in our various roles and relationships with others. It’s very freeing to make and wear masks that go outside our everyday identity. You can really expand your personal boundaries in ways you’d never expect. This series will be fun and an opportunity for people to look at themselves and their own place in personal and social peace-making.”
For more information, contact Dr. Klonsky.
