OXFORD – 6 On The Square (6OTS) announces the opening of its fourth art exhibit of 2014, Masks by Etosha. With a formal opening reception Friday, September 5, from 5 - 7 p.m., the Corning, NY, artist will present over a dozen of her palm bark and mixed media masks.

For centuries mankind has expressed emotions with masks, a façade to hide behind as in the theater. It is, however, a newer concept to use art as a form of emotional healing for those suffering from abuse, illness, grief, and stress. Artist Etosha Blank, who is currently finishing up a degree in Art Therapy and volunteering at the Elmira Psychiatric Center, has witnessed these amazing benefits. Through a series of workshops and exhibits, she is sharing her discoveries. Emotions that might otherwise be hard to reach and articulate are coming out with the creation of remarkable masks.