OXFORD – 6 On The Square (6OTS) announces the opening of its fourth art exhibit of 2014, Masks by Etosha. With a formal opening reception Friday, September 5, from 5 - 7 p.m., the Corning, NY, artist will present over a dozen of her palm bark and mixed media masks.

For centuries mankind has expressed emotions with masks, a façade to hide behind as in the theater. It is, however, a newer concept to use art as a form of emotional healing for those suffering from abuse, illness, grief, and stress. Artist Etosha Blank, who is currently finishing up a degree in Art Therapy and volunteering at the Elmira Psychiatric Center, has witnessed these amazing benefits. Through a series of workshops and exhibits, she is sharing her discoveries. Emotions that might otherwise be hard to reach and articulate are coming out with the creation of remarkable masks.

Etosha stated, “Masks provide an outlet for one's spirit and also [provide] a face to the emotions and feelings for each stage of healing. Masks allow a person to express themselves without being too vulnerable, until they are ready to integrate and show their whole selves to the world. It can provide a mirror into oneself to help strengthen and continue on one's journey, which is especially helpful in periods of trauma where one does not feel as strong or able to see outside of the immediate chaos.”