Edda - Giant Comedic Heads

For the production of Edda in the National Theatre of Iceland in 2023, I was tasked with creating two giant heads in the likeness of the character Óðinn, to be worn by two actors. Using skills learned from Charlie Tymms in puppet-making, I designed two comic-style heads with distinct facial expressions.

The process began by constructing the skeletons with bamboo, molding it while wet, and zip-tying it together. I also created a helmet system within the frame so the heads could be securely worn. Next, I applied clear plastic to the structure, using a heat gun to tighten it around the frame. After that, I built up the facial features with paper mache paste and newspaper, layering it to form the nose, eyes, and other details. Once the structure dried, I painted the heads, ensuring each had a bold, expressive design suitable for the stage.

This challenging yet rewarding task pushed my technical and artistic abilities, and the final result was a pair of striking, comic-style heads that added a unique visual element to the production.