The art of masks
Masks are one kind of art that we see all around us. Masks can be made
of many different kinds of materials. Some masks are made of paper or
papier-mache.
Others are made of cloth, plastic, rubber, or wood.
Long ago in Greece, people who acted in plays wore masks. Many of these
masks showed the characters’ feelings. A smiling mask might show
happiness, joy, or love. A frowning mask might show sadness or hate. The
actors wore masks to let the audience know what to expect from each
character.
Today, people wear masks for many reasons. They might wear masks on
Halloween. They might wear them in parades or to parties or at
carnivals.
These children are using plaster face molds to make masks.
United States
