An art project that sparked upset in the community is being recognized for serving as a catalyst for social good and community enrichment.
The Vernon Public Art Gallery’s (VPAG) compelling mini-documentary, Behind the Mask, has garnered an Honourable Mention in the prestigious Making a Difference Awards (MADA) category at the Commffest Global Community Film & Arts Festival 2023 in Toronto.
Behind the Mask delves into the personal narratives of 10 individuals in Vernon, offering a poignant exploration into their unseen vulnerabilities. Against the backdrop of widespread mental health challenges, the documentary unfolds as a tale of resilience, bravery, and community support, led by artist Katie Green.
“Everyone has a mask, everyone has several masks. It all depends on who they talk to,” said Rachel, one of the participants who faces addiction and mental health challenges.
The project not only allowed participants to peel back the layers of their personal masks, but was created as a public mural project to help the public do the same.
Unfortunately, it faced controversy in 2022 when petitions were started, calling the murals “scary” among other things. And in 2022, Vernon city council reversed its support for the project and the murals were denied to be placed on public buildings around town.
READ MORE: Vernon mask project hung out to dry
“I know that with public art sometimes people don’t like it and that’s just the way it is, you can’t really make art that pleases everybody,” said Kelsie Balehowsky, VPAG learning and community engagement curator and mask photographer.
She had hoped that the murals would spark deeper exploration among those who felt uncomfortable by them.
“Find out a little bit more and ask those questions why it makes them feel the way they feel.”
Participant Cheryl had hoped for the same.
“The world is always in a constant state of scary. You don’t know how long you have here so you better be good to people while you are here because that’s all you really got,” Cheryl said in the documentary.
“Who do you want to be? I know who I want to be and I don’t want to be that person who hurts people or exploits people.”
For Rachel it is about getting to know those who make you feel uncomfortable or deem ‘scary.’
“We are not monsters; we are human beings with hearts and feelings.”
To further extend the impact of this powerful narrative, a traveling exhibition has been curated, allowing neighbouring communities to experience the profound message of Behind the Mask. Organizations interested in hosting the exhibition can email education@vernonpublicartgallery.com.
READ MORE: ‘Wearing a mask is a big part of how I feel’: Vernon students debate art