Corradino Garofalo

The mask in contemporary society

Department: Social Design

The Fourth Wall

In traditional theatre, the ‘fourth wall’ is the imaginary wall separating the scene from the audience. Corradino Garofalo believes real life can be related to a theatrical representation, and questions the role of the fourth wall. The most direct correlation between theatre’s fourth wall and today’s society is found within the mask. This research shows that today the mask is understood as a concept more than a physical artefact – an abstract representation of identity. The mask represents an intangible layer that connects the inner self to the outer world. This layer is flexible, adaptable and reflective. It constantly adapts to the changing contexts of our lives – just as identity does. The Fourth Wall investigates ways to harness these intangible characteristics and instill them in our daily lives. What is the potential of such a resource? Can it act as a more honest mirror of our collective identity?