Kids Make MASKerpieces at Museum's Feb Vacation Program

 Kids Make Maskerpieces at Museum’s Feb Vacation Program

By Mike Lauterborn

(for Fairfield Citizen News)

2/22/12

Fairfield, CT – There was no masking the fun these kids were having at Fairfield Museum and History Center Wednesday morning as they participated in one of the facility’s February Vacation programs.

Titled “Mad Masks”, the session gave participants ages 6 to 10 a look at masks and costumes on display in the Museum’s current “Bravo!” exhibit, which inspired their own mask-making activities, led by Program Director Christine Newell.

Children could take a cue from costumes and creatures related to the mythology of Egypt and Rome as exemplified by exhibit displays of props from such productions as “Antony and Cleopatra”. Participants could also just use provided materials like pipe cleaners, felt and ribbon to create their own uniquely inspired masks.

“This is a great way for kids to use their imaginations and express themselves,” said Newell. “They can even tie in with Mardi Gras.”

Parent Jessica Lennon of Fairfield thought the program would be a productive use of her children’s time. “I wanted to get them out of the house and away from TV and technology to do something creative and fun,” she said. “We were thinking of going to New Hampshire, but there’s not much snow there and just as much to do here.”

Caroline Dayton, 10, of Fairfield, a fan of Egyptian culture, was particularly engaged in the activity. “My mask is of the Egyptian goddess Bas, who had cat features and was worshipped by the Egyptians,” she said. “It’s fun to make masks and interesting to learn about the history of them.”