Maskmaking is something I never expected to fall into, but I love it, and obviously it supports my/our work in Tut’Zanni. One thing we are always working on in the company is discovering new archetypes from our world all around us. Now working on [DIGITAL] Top Rung, I had the opportunity to make some new masks for some of the new archetypes and then characters of the show.

Here’s a little intro to some new faces:

Character Name: Marcus

Archetype: Viziato (spoiled)

This mask was super fun and looks a bit like a Disney villain (ha!). Marcus is a child of a Master character, but unlike the innamorati, he is not in love with being in love, but is instead fully spoiled and has the attitude of an heir that does not deserve the wealth and power he is born into.

As I was making this, I knew I wanted him to be a bit dumb, arrogant, and a little beautiful. I took inspiration from Kronk (Emperor’s New Groove) and Quark from Ratchet & Clank. Privileged heroes that are a bit dense. Adding in some hooded eyes and styled ‘brows brought more status and privilege to the picture, and I always love a big lip to bring some more character.

I went with a shiny gold color because… well, obviously.

Character Name: Sterling

Archetype: Viziata (Spoiled)

I actually made this mask for one of the stepsisters from our show, A (sort of) Cinderella Story. This mask is high-strung, starving for approval (from their Master parent), and as snooty as they come.

I was working to bring in thin, eyebrow tension and wide eyes, like she is in a constant manic state. With a perfect dainty nose and thin lip, I get stressed out just looking at her.

I often try to paint in leather-like colors, and this was playing with a lighter/creamier color, with some youthful rosy cheeks.

Character Name: Frankie (Frankincense)

Archetype: Gen Z daughter of a Master

Frankie was a hoot to make. I took a lot of inspiration from Bratz dolls. She is very young, so a lot of smooth, round lines, making sure the cheeks are fat enough. Painted on eyebrows seemed appropriate, and a nice big lip to add to the pouty attitude of this mask. Although her eyes are open, they seem a little more bored, as she would be with the world.

I painted her a gold/copper combo to match her brother (Marcus) and her mother, who is a coppery orange (Chardonnay). I found any natural tones would feel like skin tones with this mask, and white felt like a sort of geisha feel, which is definitely not the direction I wanted it to go.

This is also the first time I’ve added hair directly to one of my own masks, and I love the eyelashes- they are what make the eye shape work for me. These currently are just falsies, but I am planning to update it with some ethically sourced horse hair for a much bolder look!

These are only a few of the new masks I’ve had the privilege to make, and I’m excited to make and share more!

- ALi

New Show, New Masks!