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Travel Destinations Masks of Dominican Carnivals
Travel Destinations Masks of Dominican Carnivals
| Masks of Dominican Carnivals |
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| Written by Robert Nickel |
| Friday, 06 January 2012 10:31 |
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In the Dominican Republic, the carnival tradition is hundreds of years old. Many historians credit the Spanish colonialists with introducing carnival to the Caribbean nations, and that may be so. Yet today, during this modern age of the 21st century, carnival is a stronger and more visible tradition that it is in Europe. The Dominican has managed to carve out their own version of carnival characters, as discussed in a previous article in this series. Here, we will explore the construction, tradition and nuances of the masks made in and by Dominican carnival goers. Let's begin with how Dominican carnival masks are made. We know Diablo plays a huge role on carnivals, as he is the central character Dominicans choose to make fun of. The Dominican illustration of Diablo includes long pointed horns and a cow-like face. Additionally, the cattle farming tradition of the region plays a large role when it comes to providing materials for carnival masks. Slaughterhouses are fairly common around Santiago and other large cities, providing leftovers such as teeth, hides, horns and even the occasional skull. From the nearest river, clay is used to shape the face of the mask. There are no molds, each mask face is shaped freehand. The head of the intended wearer is measured, of course, and the face is made in the proper size with the desired expression. When the wet clay is formed and smoothed, it is set in the tropical Dominican sun to dry. Diablo's horns are made separately, and by shaping a layer of clay over top of real horns. Due to the delicate nature of the horns, their tall and thin layer of clay, new ones are usually made every year. While on the other hand, masks are meant to last for years. Once the clay has dried, paper is covered over the whole mask and both horns using yucca starch cooked into a paste. The process is basically the same as that done in paper mache craft projects. Layer after layer of paper and paste is applied, up to about eight in total and on both sides (inside and out). Lime juice is often added to the yucca paste to prevent it from becoming soft while the mask is worn in the Dominican sun. Also, during the 'paper mache' stage of construction the horns are attached to the mask. Holes for eyes and a mouth are drawn, cut and sanded down. Then it is time for painting. Most mask-makers use typical household paint for their masks, as it can stand up to several uses and parading around in the tropical sun. Once the paint has dried, foam and elastics are attached to the inside as a cushion against the wearer's face. The methods for making a carnival mask in the Dominican Republic are simple, yet the result is striking. The vivid colours and expressive facial features of each unique mask help to transform the wearer from a mild-mannered Dominican resident to a wild and unpredictable Diablo dancing the satirical dance of the demented! The masks of the Dominican are truly a wonderful tradition to behold in the culture of the Dominican Republic. Make sure to schedule your next Caribbean getaway during carnival! About the Author: BookIt.com is an online travel company determined and dedicated to becoming the leader in providing travelers with the most intuitive online booking experience full of relevant information, helpful guides and travel tips. Find great deals on dominican republic hotel at BookIt.com! Kindly provided by MoneyHunter.org You are welcome to use this article on your own website, if you include the link just before this text. |
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