“I’ve been going to Africa since 1968, and every place I’ve gone there are masks, usually for religious symbolism,” says art historian Margaret Burroughs. Burroughs made two ceramic masks in the South Side Community Art Center’s current exhibit Mask of the Spirit, which displays masks created by 14 local artists influenced by African art. Burrough’s masks resemble authentic tribal craft work, with gaping eyes and expressive mouths. “I did those in the 50s or 60s, but they look contemporary,” she says. “Many of the motifs I’ve seen in Africa go into my work. I borrow from many countries.”
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The exhibit Mask of the Spirit runs until November 3 at the South Side Community Art Center, 3831 S. Michigan. Hours are noon to 5 Wednesday through Saturday; admission is free. Burroughs will serve as queen of the 53rd annual Artists & Models Ball, the center’s main fund-raiser, this Saturday at 7 PM at the South Shore Cultural Center, 7059 S. South Shore Drive; tickets are $75. Call 373-1026 for more information.
