AS220 Artist-In Residence Dennis McNett, of Wolfbat Studio, will be instructing a free mask-making workshop to create a menagerie of mask-clad characters ready to take to the streets in a viking procession in this year’s Foo Fest on Saturday, August 11th. Known for his highly graphic and mythical creations, participants will learn how to create the masks that are seen across the country in McNett’s art processions. In addition to masks, participants will be making a viking ship and design the stage for Foo Fest’s main event, all utilizing extreme pattern paper, cardboard, collage and fabric. Masks will play an integral role in the viking procession on August 11th, then their creators can take them home! Participants will be encouraged to explore their inner beast.

Workshops will be held at AS220’s main performance space located at 115 Empire Street, Providence, RI 02903 – with the exception of the Thursday 6-10pm workshop which will be held at the AS220 Community Printshop.

Dennis McNett was born in 1972 and grew up in Virginia Beach, VA. He moved to New York in 2001. He has been carving surly block prints for over 18 years. His encouragement as a kid came from his blind grandfather, who told him over and over again that his drawings were good. Later influences came from the raw high-energy imagery pouring out of the early 80’s skateboard and punk rock scene. His graphic aesthetic and love for narrative work has been translated in many ways. His work ranges from larger than life Viking ship performances/parades in Philly, resurrecting Nordic giants on West Broadway in Manhattan, Dragon slayings in Oklahoma, masks, installations and sculptures to unique hand-carved wood cut pieces, traditional relief prints, and graphics.