Masks of Mexico

September 12 - November 8

Masks of Mexico on view Sept. 12 - Nov. 8

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony • Sept. 12, 10:30am
Celebrating the Opening of the Exhibit and Latino Cultural Month

The Lancaster Museum of Art is pleased to announce our next exhibition, Masks of Mexico.  This exhibit focuses on the masks that are used in the many rituals and celebrations performed in the cities and small rural villages throughout  Mexico’s various states.  The majority of states with traditions of using masks are represented in this exhibit through more than 200 masks. Grouping all these works together reveal the various forms, styles and colors that Mexican carvers employ.  The masks are made from carved wood, papier-mache, leather, cloth, ceramic, metal and other materials and display the range in skill of the artists from untrained to professional carvers.

Many of these masks were used in rituals and are part of the larger context of the costumes, dancing, setting and purpose of the event taking place. While viewing the exhibit one has to imagine the sights, sounds, smells and activity that would surround such rituals in which they were used.  As Director Anne M. Lampe notes, “ bringing this large of a collection of masks from one country allows us an intimate view of their use in rituals and how they were made. Furthermore, we will look at these masks not only for their aesthetic value, but also contextualize them for a greater understanding of their ritual purpose.”

JOIN US FOR THESE ADDITIONAL HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH EVENTS:

Latino Cultural Family Day • Oct. 3, 10am-4pm
A day filled with crafts, food, music, dance and fun for the entire family!

Diá de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) • Oct. 31, 2-4pm
Exploring the traditions of this cultural holiday

All events take place at the Lancaster Museum of Art location: 135 N. Lime St., Lancaster, PA

Mask 1: Skull Mask from Zacapaneca, Guerrero, wood, 10 ½ inches
Mask 2: Diablo Mask from Uruapan, Michoacan, wood, 12 inches
Mask 3: Jaguar Mask from Guerrero, wood, 11 ½ inches
All masks from a Private Collection