Masquerade of Men

This sculptural installation explores the social construction of masculinity through three exaggerated male figures made from papier-mâché, clay, and found materials. Combining camp aesthetics with grotesque textures, the work uses humour and satire to critique toxic masculinity and the performance of “alpha male” identity. Resin drips that imitate sweat, second-hand fabrics, wigs, and theatrical accessories create a camp humorous aesthetic.

The three figures represent contrasting performances of masculinity: a flamboyant wrestler inspired by Adrian Street, a theatrical performer based on the artist’s father, and an aggressive modern-day gym bro. Their positioning creates a silent confrontation in which the gym bro’s exaggerated dominance is undermined by the confidence and indifference of the other two figures. Through this dynamic, the work exposes hypermasculinity as fragile and performative.

Inspired by artists such as Augustas Serapinas and Jordan Wolfson, the installation combines theatricality, satire, and vulnerability to examine how masculinity is shaped by spectacle, shame, and social expectations. Although initially focused on gym culture, the project evolved into a more personal exploration of identity, performance, and empowerment through humour.