Mr. Hobbs
Mask Making
Carnival Masks
About: Carnival masks have been used for celebratory purposes for hundreds of years and are still commonly used today. Many masked festivals are associated with folk festivals, holidays or special events. These masks often add an element of mystery and intrigue when worn. They are usually extremely bright and colourful. Many festivals originated so carnival goers could be free to be whomever they wanted, and mingle with whatever class they desired.
Cultures/Places: In North America, the largest masked celebration occurs during Mardi Gras in New Orleans.
Another well known festival is the Carnival of Venice, in Italy, which attracts 3 million visitors each year.
In Mexico and Guatemala, annual folk festivals employ masks for storytelling, such as the “Dance of the Old Men”.
The Inuit make masks with comical or satirical features that are worn at festivals.
Materials:Mardi Gras masks are typically created on a wire or plastic frame.
The core structure of Venetian masks are often created using plaster, paper mache, porcelain and plastic.
These masks are then decorated using a variety of objects including feathers, cardboard, sequins, glitter, paint, flowers and ribbon.
Mardi Gras Mask
A Jester Mask from the Carnival of Venice
Calacas Mask from Day of the Dead in Mexico
