Masks have been made through time to help people to become what they wanted to become, whether that be animal, moon, stars, sun, whatever it took to connect with the Oneness. Masks have the power to cure and to entertain.  They often depict some image that was shown in a dream.

The mask is very much a part of the Medicine person who owns and uses it. Some masks will only work for the person who has learned the songs and dances that are connected to the mask, as well as having earned the respect of the being portrayed in the mask. Since masks are the bridge to the spirit world and are used to connect with it, a person needs to have a strong connection with the spirit world in order to use the mask safely.

The mask is a face of power that gives new vision. It is a face that has been filled with the essence of the Great Spirit and all He encompasses. One doesn't hide behind the mask, rather he becomes what the mask portrays, losing his own identity for that time. You can reflect the inner with the outer expression of the mask.

Most masks have a basis in myth or legend, and are generally used to illustrate a myth or legend. These stories often involve masks being taken, caught, or given. Sometimes the mask is simply used to show a creature's features in a story.

Masks are often considered to be living beings, especially once the nose, mouth, and eye openings have been carved. Thus the masks are fed and cared for.

Masks can be made of wood, clay, plants, animals parts, or any combination of these.
 
 

First Opened: November 13, 2000
Revised: June 2004