The facemask: Symbol of our hopes, dreams & fears

Superheroes wear one. Trump refuses to wear one. It has become a symbol of political revolt, such as by pro-democracy HK protesters who wore it in black. It is the avatar of the coronavirus. A modern symbol of our worst fear.

We’re talking about the facemask, which, fashion-wise, easily wins as Accessory of the Year 2020. Was it prophetic that in 2015, Chinese designer Masha Ma featured a Swarovski-studded facemask on the Paris runway? Gucci made one for Billie Eilish for the Grammys. There is a Chanel mask with a camellia. And a Fendi with the double F. So is this what The New York Times calls Smog Couture?

However, this is not to diminish the importance of the facemask as just an accessory. Artist Alessa Lanot designed a set called “Days of the Week,” one mask for each day printed on the strap, “because like underwear, you now can’t leave the house without wearing one.”

Facemasks uncover a deep history, worldwide. People wore them during the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic. During the SARS outbreak in 2003, masks were almost on every Asian face. It was, and still is, a sign of caring — for yourself and for others not to catch or spread the virus. It is now a part of social etiquette to wear a mask. “Stay away from me” is the overt message. A reminder in this age of social distancing.

The mask has transformed us into scientific-minded citizens. And civic-minded ones, too. We see people sharing masks, especially with those who cannot even afford to put food on the table. We see generous people putting together raw materials — even cloth scraps — and gathering friends and employees to do DIY (do-it-yourself) facemasks to be given away.

Facemasks have inspired artists to create their own, using whatever materials are on hand. Fashion designers, too, have their own concepts, ranging from practical to fantasy. 

Let’s take a look.

Kenneth Cobonpue

This mask is made of fine, clear and colored monofilament thread, with the option of having another layer behind for protection. The back can hold a disposable medical-grade fabric or a washable cotton cloth. This synthetic mask can be sprayed and disinfected with alcohol.

Lesley Mobo

The idea of wearing a commercial mask in the village is somehow a luxury. So here is one using anahaw leaves lined with banana leaves, palms or pandan leaves. Mother Nature tells us we can face this crisis by bringing ourselves in harmony with nature.

Humans might haven taken control of the planet, but they stand humbled by this microorganism. Humankind’s greed to control nature for power and profit can be wiped out by a microorganism we cannot even see with our naked eye. Is nature teaching us a lesson here?

Maxine Syjuco

The painting on this mask represents a celebration of the human spirit and its ability to rise above tribulations. While the pangs of uncertainty threaten us with blades of fear and anguish, we continue to prevail by spreading our wings of hope — and seeking the freedom of tomorrow, which awaits us with the blooming promise of beauty and rebirth.

Chito Vijandre & Ricky Toledo

This mask is made from discarded silk leaves and laser-print cotton butterflies.

Rhett Eala

My team and I are one with the world in this fight against COVID-19. We have been making use of this extraordinary time to pitch in by creating facemasks, though not of medical grade, but which may be used by non-frontliners in keeping themselves and others safe and protected. We have been donating and giving away to those in need while we continue with the production of this essential wear.

Alessa L. Lanot

My concept is called Flowery Words — statement masks with water-colored floral designs. I wanted to combine colors and florals that attract with words that playfully remind you to keep your distance.

Albert Andrada

I made this crystal-studded half facial protective gear for formal evenings, not knowing it was like a premonition. The fabric of double mesh makes it more breathable, which makes the wearer feel more comfortable and at the same time, fully protected.

Rajo Laurel

This is our prototype for the masks that I had made once the rule was implemented. It’s easy to wear and you can lift it up and down easily. It will be available once the lock form is available. We’re using remnants from the PPE donation fund drive that we’re currently busy with for our frontliners.