I have always been fascinated with masks and the way cultures interpret this most ancient of art forms. Allowing the wearer to become that which is not of this place, be that a god or a demon, a spirit or story.

The Oni are a kind of yōkai from Japanese folklore. They take the form of demons, ogres or trolls and feature in many traditional art forms and fairytales, often depicted as the villain. These fearsome creatures have cultural links through China and India, tied to the spread of Buddhist mythology.

This is an ongoing theme of study for me as my fascination with this art form grows. Oni Mask #4 is the first to use a futuristic theme for this style.