Masks have been used all over the world since ancient times for a variety of reasons - for disguise or protection, for entertainment and performance art, as an ornamentation as well as in rituals such as funerary masks and in ceremonies. 

Masks are still popular today. They can be used in festivals as part of costumes. Shown here are the leather masks creations by BarnwellDesigns. 

Tom Banwell was first to create the iconic modern plague doctor leather mask (see below) way back in 2010 and well before the 2020 pandemic made it part of popular culture. It has been widely imitated and unfortunately without credit.  See more of his fabulous plague doctor masks here.  Great for Halloween and cosplay costumes!


I have also chosen several beautiful examples from his fashion mask collection. These are likely laser cut. The leather cutouts are then wet formed on face forms and hand painted. Adjustable elastic fasteners hold the masks to the head.









The Fascinating History of Venetian Mask Making

There are many festivals around the world which feature a lot of masks. But none as famous as the distinct masks worn for the Carnival of Venice which is held in February and March each year.  It originated sometime in the Middle Ages.  It was banned in 1797 because the government feared politcal enemies were plotting an overthrow using the masks to hide their identities. In 1979, the festival was revived and has been celebrated ever since. 

Watch this short video by Artrageous with Nate where he goes to a famous mask maker in Venice for a little history and is shown how Venetian masks are made using traditional techniques. The paper and wool combination for the papier-mâché method makes the masks very strong yet lightweight.


Before You Go:

 jewelry making supplies

Disclosure 

This blog may contain affiliate links. I do receive a small fee for any products purchased through affiliate links. This goes towards the support of this blog and to provide resource information to readers. The opinions expressed are solely my own. They would be the same whether or not I receive any compensation. 
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Original Post by THE BEADING GEM