Masterclass on making a Venetian mask
It is worth remembering, the history of Venetian masks goes deep into the past centuries. Once upon a time, the mask was a commonly used accessory by Venetians in their daily lives, and not just during Carnival.
For a certain period of the Venetian Republic, anyone who wandered around Venice could wear a mask on their face in order to conceal their identity. This could be for a variety of reasons, including some not entirely good and honest ones, such as for crime and adultery.
Eventually, the use of masks for personal purposes went beyond all possible limits and the Serene Republic of Venice banned them, except only during Carnival. This is how the triad was born: Venetian mask, Venetian carnival, Venice.
In the heart of Venice, enter the author’s workshop and learn the techniques of making and decorating a Venetian mask for you with the artisans. With materials such as clay, papier-mâché, plaster and gauze you will learn how the masks of the Commedia dell’Arte came to be and you will be able to make a Venetian mask with your own hands of excellent quality together with experienced craftsmen. The workshop is both a handmade mask decorating workshop and a two-day version on creating and decorating from scratch.
See the workshop with your children. This is where they create authentic Venetian masks. They will show you how and what they are made of. You will also make your own mask with the children, which you can take away as a beautiful souvenir.
The workshop is conducted in English and Italian. You can request an interpreter guide from our managers.
The recommended age for children is minimum 7 years old.
The master class is also held on the island of Burano
.
