Monday, October 26, 2009

Hale-oween

Happy Halloween! This week I am posting a few of the costumes Mike Hale has created over the years. The characters are entirely handmade from various materials such as nylons, stuffing, cardboard, dime store toys and miscellaneous parts that are drilled, sawed, sewn, sanded and molded into works of art.

This costume was inspired by Director David Lynch's unforgettable film The Elephant Man, starring John Hurt, Anthony Hopkins and Anne Bancroft.



Costume - Mike Hale
Photo - John White



The film is based on the story of Joseph Merrick (called John Merrick in the movie), a severely deformed man living in London during the 19th Century. His discovery in a freak show by Dr. Frederick Treves unfolds an emotional story about humans, humanity and hope.


Costume - Mike Hale
Photo - John White


The Elephant Man's haunting black and white cinematography, led Mike Hale to incorporate fellow IUP student John White in photographing his incredible creation.



Costume - Mike Hale
Photo - John White

Part of Mike Hale's creative journey is going into character, playing the part, becoming who he is, The Elephant Man.



Costume - Mike Hale
Photo - John White


2 comments:

The Old Parsonage said...

Ohhh I have to see the real photos! Bring them in, this is one costume I didn't know about. How does he come up with these things?!
Leann

Anonymous said...

These are excellent costumes and would scare the bejesus out of kids.