Shawn Athari

Contemporary Glass Artist

Latin American Styles


Distinctive styles of masks began to emerge in pre-Hispanic America about 1200BC, although there is evidence of far older mask forms.

In post-colonial Latin America pre-Columbian traditions merged with Christian rituals, and syncretic masquerades and ceremonies, such as All Souls/Day of the Dead developed, despite efforts of the Church to stamp out the indigenous traditions. Masks remain an important feature of popular carnivals and religious dances, such as The Dance of the Moors and Christians. Mexico, in particular, retains a great deal of creativity in the production of masks, encouraged by collectors. Wrestling matches, where it is common for the participants to wear masks, are very popular and many of the wrestlers can be considered folk heroes.




Aztec Warrior Example
Aztec Warrior

Cerimonial Mask Example
Ceremonial

Mermaid Example
Mermaid

Peruvian Post Example
Peruvian Post

Vera Cruz Example
Vera Cruz