In 2007, Magnhild Kennedy transformed her fascination with London into a new life chapter. Growing up in Trondheim, Norway, she dreamed of the vibrant streets described in The Face, a magazine that became her portal to the world. At 19, she left school, seeking life beyond her hometown. A year in Barcelona split her early twenties before returning to Norway, where she worked in the service industry, tethered by practicality.
Marriage and a mutual yearning for adventure led Kennedy and her husband to London in 2007. Settling in Islington, she found work in a vintage shop, surrounded by textiles in varied states. This sparked an unexpected passion for sewing. She educated herself through YouTube tutorials and soon began crafting fantastical costumes from vintage materials, which she and her husband wore during nights out.
Today, Kennedy’s heart beats through the art of mask-making. Her creations, popularized via her @damselfrau Instagram account, have captivated a global audience. Each mask she crafts, unique and detailed, is a testament to her untrained yet undeniable artistry — a vibrant symphony of beads, lace, and fabric.
The foundation of her work remains vintage finds, sourced from London’s eclectic markets. “The pulse of this city keeps me inspired,” she shares. Kennedy describes London’s people and markets as a living tapestry, infusing her work with life and history. “I prefer used materials; they come with stories, marks, and character,” she explains.
Crafting stories through material
Kennedy’s process is as organic as it is deliberate. She keeps multiple masks in development, embracing spontaneity. There are no plans or sketches, just intuition and interaction with the materials. When she finds the creative flow disrupted, she sets a piece aside, waiting for inspiration to realign.
Once completed, each mask receives a carefully considered name, reflecting its connection to broader themes such as nature or history. Kennedy’s creative journey includes taking a self-portrait that breathes life into each mask, highlighting her deep connection to her creations.
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Beyond masks, her creativity spills into smaller objects made from untouched remnants, or “crumbs,” showcasing her resourcefulness and expanding the Damselfrau universe.
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The Damselfrau universe
Starting as a light-hearted take on gender norms, the name Damselfrau combines maidenhood and self-partnering. It embodies Kennedy’s journey and philosophy: “married to oneself.” Social media, initially a mere outlet, has evolved into an essential element of her art, enhancing the connection between Kennedy and her audience.
Looking forward, Kennedy is excited to exhibit at The National Museum of Decorative Arts in her hometown, her debut in a significant Norwegian venue. “I’m very proud to be invited,” she reflects on this homecoming.
*This article was featured in Hi-Fructose issue 51, now sold out. Get our latest issue by subscribing here today.
Source: hifructose.com
Frequently asked questions
How did Magnhild Kennedy start making masks?
Magnhild Kennedy began crafting fantastical costumes from vintage materials while working in a vintage shop in London. She educated herself through YouTube tutorials and eventually focused on mask-making, which became popular on her Instagram account, @damselfrau.
What materials does Kennedy use for her masks?
Kennedy uses vintage materials sourced from London’s eclectic markets. She prefers used materials because they come with stories, marks, and character.
Where is Kennedy’s upcoming significant exhibition?
Kennedy is set to exhibit at The National Museum of Decorative Arts in her hometown, marking her debut at a significant Norwegian venue.