“Double Life,” a vibrant plaster mask by artist Janet Alvarez Gonzalez, captures the tension between two contrasting realities. The mask’s surface is alive with bold, bright colors that swirl and blend in dynamic patterns—rich red, blues, and vivid yellow — representing the complexity and chaos of a dual existence. The mask’s intricate details, including exaggerated features and sharp contours, convey an emotional intensity that evokes both inner conflict and a sense of hidden strength. Its two-sided nature symbolizes the balance between public persona and private identity, suggesting a dialogue between the outward mask we wear for the world and the inner self that often remains concealed. Through this compelling work, Alvarez Gonzalez invites viewers to reflect on the masks we all wear in society and the tension between authenticity and performance. The use of plaster, with its smooth yet rigid texture, adds a sense of permanence and fragility to the piece, further emphasizing the delicate and lasting impact of the double life many of us lead.