Vejigante

News, 2010.01.01

The vejigante is a carnival character that is seen during various festivals and celebrations in Puerto Rico. They are known for wearing ornate masks like this one, painted in bright, contrasting colors.

I constructed this mask as a Christmas gift for some close friends. Unfortunately, I forgot to take a picture of the mask once it was fully painted, so I can’t show how colorful these masks usually are once they are finished. Masks like this one are traditionally constructed from aluminum foil (for the structural pieces) and paper mache (to add hardness and final texture).

I had never made a mask this elaborate before, so putting it together was challenging. For next year, I resolve to have enough money to buy people presents instead of having to make them myself.