Masks is an international, multidisciplinary project that explores the emotional, identity-based, and cultural dimensions of human experience through the creation and performative use of masks.
For millennia, masks have served as tools for examining identity and the symbolic meaning of emotions through rituals and theatrical expression across nearly all cultures of the world. As universal symbols of transformation, they represent a shared human heritage. This universality forms the foundation of the project, which places the ancient symbol into a contemporary artistic context and uses it as a tool for intercultural dialogue and emotional articulation—recognizing the mask as a common point of departure where different cultures, traditions, and generations meet.
In this project, the mask functions as a visual, physical, and symbolic medium of transformation. Participants create masks embodying specific emotions and personal narratives; their encounter culminates in a collective performative composition—a poetic reflection of human relationships, tensions, and synergies.
Led artistically by Inti Šraj, the project unfolds in diverse cultural contexts and is built on collaboration with local communities, artists, and institutions in each location. Its international dimension is essential: the project is grounded in the exchange of knowledge, artistic practices, and cultural perspectives, fostering intercultural competencies, creative reflection, and community connection.
Performance in progress
Concept author and director: Inti Šraj
Creators and performers: Orchestre Jigeen Ñi
Khady Dieng – klaviaturistka / performerka
Evora Vaz – basistka / performerka
Ndeye Cissé – tolkalistka / performerka
Amina Sarr – pevka / performerka
Aissatou Dieng – bobnarka / performerka
Music production: Jure Vlahovič
Costum designer: Ixone Ormaeche Gabilondo v sodelovanju z vajenkami šole Centre de Formation Professionnelle de Ouakam
Light designer: Borut Bučinel
Producer: Nataša Zavolovšek
Production: Zavod Exodos Ljubljana
Co-production: Festival Druga godba Ljubljana
Partners:
Grande Théâtre National de Dakar
MCU Dakar
Kuga Studio
Lutkovno gledališče Ljubljana