Face Masks Series

Face masks have a long history in Japanese culture, not only to protect oneself, but for the safety of others. 

European countries have struggled with accommodating face masks into society, not only due to negative connotations, such as sickness, that are associated with masks, but because they cover one’s facial expressions, or arguably one’s identity.

With the current Covid-19 crisis, standards for social interactions have shifted, and face masks have become icons that represent a new way of living.

They are also an icon of Japanese culture that places importance on caring for one another and providing enough space and privacy for others, both emotionally and physically.

Lutringer, who has found successes in embodying elements of Japanese spirituality and culture into his minimalistic works, depicts a motif inspired by face mask in his new series through geometric structures, representing the “new normal” after Covid-19.