Art Experience, The Mask of the Lake

THE SECRET HISTORY OF THE MASK

Suitable for: families, friends, couples, and teams

A fascinating journey into the history of the theatrical mask, from the sumptuous 18th-century balls to Italian stages. The Art Master will guide you in discovering ancient printing and decoration techniques, allowing you to personalize a mask with colors, metallic powders, trimmings, glass beads, gilded pastes, and feathers.

During the workshop, you will experience:

• The discovery of the history and traditions of Italian theatrical masks;
• Active participation in the printing and finishing of an artisanal mask;
• Decoration using traditional techniques, transforming each mask into a unique work of art;
• The experience of an art workshop immersed in an evocative location;
• At the end of the experience, you will take home a hand-decorated mask, an exclusive memento of your day in Bellagio.

This experience is perfect for those who wish to:

• Create a personalized mask to wear or keep as an art object;
• Discover the history and techniques of traditional mask making;
• Explore your creative side through the use of high-quality materials and decorations;
• Experience a unique, original, and enjoyable immersion in Italian art and culture.

WORKSHOP: THE BIRTH OF THE MASK

Suitable for: artists, theatre enthusiasts, couples, families, and teams.

A professional course that will guide you through the creation of a theatrical mask, starting with clay modeling. With the support of a Master of Art, you will learn traditional techniques and craft an authentic piece, utilizing materials and methods passed down through centuries.

What you will learn during the course:

• The history of the mask and its significance in Italian theatre;
• Clay modeling to form the mask's base;
• The preparation of the plaster cast for the molding process;
• The traditional papier-mâché techniques for creating the mask;
• The final decoration with high-quality materials, ensuring a unique and personalized result;
• By the end of the experience, you will have crafted an authentic theatrical mask, a symbol of Italy's artistic tradition.

This masterclass is ideal for those who wish to:

• Deepen their understanding of the tradition and craftsmanship techniques of theatrical masks;
• Immerse themselves in the captivating world of set design and Commedia dell’Arte;
• Explore clay working and the creation of plaster casts;
• Experiment with ancient papier-mâché techniques for mask creation;
• Create an authentic artistic work that encapsulates the history and elegance of Lake Como.

What does the course include?

• An exclusive 2-hour or 3-day (3 hours per day) experience in a historic art workshop on Lake Como;
• An art lesson with Italian Masters, who are experts in the creation of theatrical masks;
• A dedicated assistant to support you throughout the creative process;
• Traditional materials and equipment, ranging from papier-mâché to embossed decorations;
• Decorative elements, including metallic powders, trimmings, glass beads, feathers, and gilded pastes;
• Opportunity to freely visit the Gardens and Museum of Villa Melzi d’Eril in Bellagio;
• Personalized packaging for the safe transport of your creation;
• Upon request: transfer service from Bellagio city center (Lungolario Manzoni) to the workshop location;
• Delivery of the artwork to your accommodation in Bellagio, for those staying in the area;
• Private experience, for 2 to 4 participants.

What will this art experience offer you?

• An immersive experience in a historic Art Workshop on Lake Como;
• The discovery of the world of theatre and set design, through masks;
• The opportunity to work with traditional equipment and materials, handed down through centuries;
• The possibility of creating a unique mask that embodies your personality;
• A journey into the history of Commedia dell'Arte and Italian theatre;
• An artistic experience that combines creativity, culture, and craftsmanship;
• The freedom to explore the Gardens and Museum of Villa Melzi, to complete your journey into art;
• A special souvenir of Lake Como, to take with you or display as an art object.