We chose 4 different cultures and researched how the masks looked and how they were used.
Mexico: Day of the Dead Mask These masks are used in an October celebration to commemorate family members who have passed away. People will often paint their faces or wear masks that resemble skulls, as well as create altars or ofrendas, to celebrate the departed.
Italy: Venetian Masks Dating back hundreds of years Venetians would disguise themselves during the Carnevale di Venezia an annual festival. Over time, Venetian masks have been developed from the habits and traditions of Venetian citizens and some of them are among the most popular and beautiful masks in the world!
Africa: African Masks African Masks play an important role in ceremonies, rituals and masquerades. Harvest celebrations, funerals, rites of passage, weddings and coronations and in some societies masks are used to settle disputes and communal conflicts.
China: Chinese Masks The origin of Chinese masks is in shamanic rituals of the old. They were used for exorcisms and during funeral rituals. Masks developed over time and entered other parts of life and culture. Today they are used in dance performances, during celebrations, there are masks for newborns, masks made for protection against evil and theatrical masks.
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Guest Artists:
Avery Pembleton, Venetian Mask Evan Bowen, African Mask Nadine Quintero, Day of the Dead Mask Kaylee Smith, Day of the Dead Mask Taylor Smith, Chinese Mask Aaron Fong, Day of the Dead Mask
About Carol Peters: With over 30 years experience in art education, Carol is an award winning artist, actress, executive producer and star of“ Carol on Creativity” Named 2021 Poppy Jasper International Film Festival’ s Art Icon. Her passion is to bring art alive for young and young at heart. Contact Carol at: caroljp @ garlic. com
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