Master class on creating a Venetian mask
It is worth reminding that the history of Venetian masks goes deep into the past centuries. Long ago, the mask was a widely used accessory by Venetians in their daily lives, not just during the carnival.
During a certain period of the Venetian Republic, anyone wandering through Venice could wear a mask to hide their identity. This could be for various reasons, including not entirely noble and honest ones, such as for crimes and infidelity.
Eventually, the use of masks for personal purposes crossed all possible limits, and the Most Serene Venetian Republic banned them, except during the carnival period. Thus, the triad was born: the Venetian mask, the Venetian carnival, Venice.
In the heart of Venice, enter the author’s workshop and learn the technique of making and decorating a Venetian mask for you with the masters. With materials such as clay, papier-mâché, plaster, and gauze, you will learn how the masks of commedia dell’arte came to be, and you will be able to create a high-quality Venetian mask by hand together with experienced masters. The master class is conducted both for decorating handmade masks and in a two-day version for creating and decorating from scratch.
Bring your children to the workshop. Here, real Venetian masks are created. You will be told and shown how and from what they are made. You will also make your own mask with the children, which can later be taken home as a wonderful souvenir.
The master class is conducted in English and Italian. You can request a guide-translator from our managers.
The recommended age for children is at least 7 years.
The master class is also held on the island of Burano.
