The Joan Schirle Collection

Women & Masks

Women and Masks is an international, web-based arts-research conference hosted by Boston University. It is free and open to anyone and attendees can register for single or multiple events. The conference, which will take place across four weekends during the 2021–2022 academic year, explores the myriad intersections of the subjects masks and women. The pairing is intended to create a thematic, yet open-ended framing, giving rise to juxtapositions and rapprochements, generating unexpected insights. These insights are expected to lead to a rich inquiry into the significance of masking practices as they connect to women.

See more at Boston University College of Fine Arts.

Women & Masks, a Transdisciplinary Arts-Research Conference

Opening Night

Joan Schirle, Keynote Speaker on Opening Night at Women & Masks

References from Joan Schirle Keynote Speech

Intro Workshop

Joan Schirle, Intro Workshop, Women & Masks

Joan in the words of her friends

She was a mirror and confidante. One of the greatest things I learned from her is to be present for your life – and to embrace all the gnarliness of your humanity.

Janessa Johnsrude, friend, Dell’Arte teacher, Blue Lake CA

I loved Joan dearly and admired her status in the world of theatre education, but more; the grace and humility with which she navigated that role.

Swami Newmi Newman, Ubud, Bali

I was riveted by her dynamic and commanding performances.

David Ferney, actor, photographer, cinematographer, Arcata CA