Atlanta-based artist Jym Davis, also known as False Face, has a unique fascination with bats. His journey into creating masks of these winged creatures began during residencies at national parks in the American West. In Arizona, he discovered the Townsend’s big-eared bat and other critically threatened species like the pallid bat in Northern California, Oregon, and Idaho.
The scrunched-up faces and huge ears of the Townsend’s big-eared bat inspired Davis to explore his sculpting and painting techniques further. He found beauty in the strange and exotic features of bats and felt compelled to capture their essence in his art.
When venturing into caves and lava tubes where bats reside, Davis takes precautions to protect these animals from contagious diseases and fungi that visitors may inadvertently bring in. He acknowledges the historical misunderstanding and villainization of bats and seeks to shed light on their importance in the ecosystem.
Drawing inspiration from ancient European festival traditions and materials, Davis incorporates papier mâché and old festival elements like bells and ribbons into his creations. He deliberately avoids modern materials, opting for a more traditional approach to mask-making.
While Davis’s masks are based on real creatures, he adds his artistic flair with bold patterns, colors, and geometries. His collection includes a variety of mythological characters, such as the Flood Birds and Morph Angels, each with its own distinct personality and story.
Davis often wears his masks in natural settings, capturing the essence of each character through striking photographs and performances. Currently, he is preparing for a photo session in Joshua Tree, California, for his upcoming book on Morph Angels.
One of Davis’s albatross masks is on display at Dorado 806 Projects in Los Angeles as part of the FORAGE: OCEANS exhibition. His masks are also available for purchase on his website, where fans can follow updates on his latest projects and exhibitions.
In a world where ancient masked traditions are celebrated, artists like Davis bring a modern twist to this timeless art form. Through his intricate mask-making process, Davis pays homage to the rich history of festival traditions while infusing his creations with a contemporary aesthetic.
For those who appreciate unique art forms and the beauty of nature, Jym Davis’s masks offer a captivating glimpse into a world where myth and reality blend seamlessly. Explore his collection online and experience the enchanting allure of his bat-inspired creations.
