Microscope is very pleased to present “Love Masks”, a live online performance by Marni Kotak. In the performance, which will be streamed from Kotak’s home, the artist is seated in her kitchen listening to the evening news, and sewing masks for her family and others to wear during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“My mother is a retired nurse who taught me how to sew, and recommended that I make a mask for the safety of myself and my family and some to donate to community members. I decided to make a personalized mask that I would like to wear and see others wearing, one that would spread a message of love, rather than add to the fear and hopeless many are feeling right now…” — MK

Each mask, which comes in three variations, features the word “Love” embedded in a lotus flower, which Kotak explains as a reference to the symbol of the lotus in Buddhism, symbolizing the beauty that emerges from the muck, or deepest challenges in life. Two of the images are prints of pastel drawings by the artist and the third is a digital image made by the artist’s 8-year-old son, Ajax.

While the performance was conceived of several weeks ago, coincidentally it is taking place following the recent requirement that every person wear a mask or other face covering in public, beginning on the evening of April 17th.

The three “Love Masks” will be available beginning at the time of the performance, as limited editions of 50. Half of all proceeds will be donated to City Harvest.

Visit the https://microscopegallery.com/product/love-mask-by-marni-kotak/ to purchase a mask.