Felix Mirbt’s Masks

Felix Mirbt was born in Germany in 1931. In 1954, he became a resident of Québec. A singular puppet master and a striking figure of contemporary theater, his artistic path took him from marionettes to manipulation of abstract sculptures. Haunted by his childhood and fascinated by the strength of images, he approaches the mask from a preoccupation with the role of the manipulator as well as by scenic rituals.

For Mirbt, the mask is inherent to the actor; while separated from the actor, the mask also takes on meaning as an autonomous object. He writes: “When I create an image, it is not to make an immediate impression, but to make an impression that will be with you for the rest of your life”.

After his death in 2002, Mirbt left an impressive collection of puppets and masks, testifying to the evolution of his art. Puppet master Marcelle Hudon has selected some of his masks for us.

Masks: Felix Mirbt

Concept: Marcelle Hudon and Michel Bachelet