As part of the Kunstpunkte 2023 in Düsseldorf, a special collaborative project took place between KRASS e.V. and the Federal Association of Visual Artists in the Düsseldorf regional association (BBK). The project was led by Michelle from the BBK and was aimed at children from the KRASS e.V. community. The workshops took place in the premises of the BBK Kunstforum Düsseldorf.
Theme and artistic approach
The project's starting point was the question: Why do people love costumes and masks? Michelle, an artist with the BBK (Professional Association of Visual Artists), had already been exploring the theme of "headspace"—the inner space in which we reside mentally and emotionally—for a year. She also investigated how we both express certain feelings and, at the same time, conceal many emotions from ourselves.
Through creative exchange with the children, we explored how to find the right "mind space." Only when we succeed in this can we enjoy life with all its challenges. A key insight was the importance of taking time for things that give us good "mind space." These moments foster inner peace, joy, and balance.
Creative process and results
The theme was perfectly suited for working artistically and playfully with the children. This allowed them to immerse themselves in the world of masks, emotions, and identity. Using various materials, colors, and shapes, the children created individual masks and artworks that reflected their personal "headspace." In this way, feelings that often remain hidden became visible, and inner moods were given an external form.
meaning and effect
The project not only gave the children access to visual art. It also opened up opportunities for self-reflection and emotional expression. The resulting works impressively demonstrated how differently children perceive and artistically express their own feelings.
The cooperation between KRASS e.V. and the BBK proved to be particularly enriching. It combined educational work with artistic practice and created a space in which children could grow creatively and discover new things about themselves.
