Ed. note: This news release comes from Maplewing Artisans in Bellows Falls. Face it! Halloween is coming! CCB

Making Faces at Maplewing Artisans

                        Let the spirits move you!  Reveal your inner gnome or scallawag…unfurl your fairy wings…clown around….

                        Maplewing Artisans is offering two styles of mask making workshops – wire mesh and papier mache.  Classes are scheduled for children or adults.  Children 6-8 years old should be accompanied by an adult.  Families: first child full tuition, second at ½ price.  Pre-registration is required, as space is limited.

    Wire masks are formed by cutting, crimping and painting galvanized screen.  This makes a mask which allows full visibility and easy breathing for the wearer and a subtle, spooky distortion of the features.  Wire mesh masks have been part of Mardi Gras as far back as the early 1900’s, and can be as simple or complex as imagination and time allow.

    Papier mache masks will take place over two shorter sessions, as the base will need to dry before decorating.  During the first session, we will build the basic shape of the mask, using paste and paper.  In the second class we will paint, embellish and model our masks.  Please dress for the creative mess.

    There will be a separate 1½ hour session to create plaster casts, for those who would like a permanent mold of their own face.  Creating a mask in the shape of your face makes a better-fitting mask.  Plaster casting is fairly messy, so you should dress accordingly.

Thursday, October 18th  4-5:30 p.m.         Plaster Cast Faces                        $10

Saturday, October 20th 11 a.m.-1:00 p.m.  Wire Mesh Masks (A)            $25

                                     1-2:30 Papier Mache Masks $25                                    
                    3:30-5            Papier Mache 1 (A)    $30          

Saturday, October 27th  1-2        Papier Mache Masks 2

                                                            4-6      Wire Mesh Masks  $20              

                                                          7-8:30            Papier Mache 2 (A)

                    Carved wooden masks, papier mache and wire mesh masks will be on display in our window and for 3rd Friday Art Walk on October 19th.  We will be demonstrating a variety of mask making techniques during the Art Walk from 5-8 PM.