Masks

Central & South America The use of masks in Mexico dates from 3000 BC. Masks were used by priests to summon the power of deities and in the sacrifices of pre-Hispanic Mexico. With Spanish contact masks began to be used to educate people on the Christian faith.

Masks in the folk art tradition combine human and animal features: jaguars, birds, bats and alligators can be identified within a humanized face. In other cases, birds, snakes and lizards emerge from the nose or eyebrows of a face. And, others still depict full animals figures attached to the face. Material from Arizona State Museum

Jaguar images and costumes were outlawed by the Catholic church in the 17th century because of their association with Native American religions. However, the jaguar has survived as an important aspect in ritual celebrations in Central America today. It now represents a blend of Native American and European elements, combining pre- Columbian rituals with events and symbols of Christian significance.

Actors wear masks, such as this one, representing jaguars or tigres. This celebration takes place in the rainy season & demonstrates the continued association of the jaguar with rain and fertility. Material and images from NHM

Africa The masks are usually carved with an extraordinary skill and variety by artists who will usually have received their training as an apprentice to a master carver - frequently it is a tradition that has been passed down within a family through many generations. Each mask is worn by a trained performer. The masks are part of whole performance ensembles, consisting of elaborately costumed dancers, vibrant music, and highly stylized dances.

These complex ceremonial events expressed important social, religious, and moral values for the whole community. For example, in West Africa, masks are used in masquerades that form part of religious ceremonies enacted to contact with spirits and ancestors. Many African masks represent animals. Some African tribes believe that the animal masks can help them communicate with the spirits who live in forests or open savannas.

Take a few moments to sketch 2 ideas for a mask based on African Designs There are magazines with pictures of animals to help you come up with ideas (if you would like). Crayons are on the table for you to add color to your sketches.

Italy The first documented usage of Venetian masks was an annual celebration in During the 16th through 18th century Venetian Masks became the signature of the Commedia Dell'arte, popular plays of comedies involving jealousy and love.

Additionally, the masks served an important social purpose of keeping every citizen on an equal playing field. Masked, a servant could be mistaken for a nobleman - or vice versa. On October 17, 1797 Venice became part of Austria. When the Austrians took control of the city, masked celebrations were outlawed. Now masks are worn during the week long celebration of Mardi Gras.