Come explore The Mystery of the Mask, a multi media exhibit focused on the cultural icon of the mask in a ritual ceremony of the Tarahumara people of northern Mexico, featuring photography, video and sculpture by Kitty Alice Snead, Bill Faulkner and Valery Guignon. The Mystery of the Mask is on view at the Janette Kennedy Gallery from October 3 through October 30, 2009. The Gallery is located at South Side On Lamar, 1409 S. Lamar in Dallas Texas, 75215. The gallery phone is 214-426-1575.
This fascinating show of photographs and videos documents the re-introduction of the Chapeyoko ceremonial mask into the ritual traditions of the Tarahumara, an indigenous people of northern Mexico. Dallas based photographer Kitty Alice Snead has been traveling with the ethnologist and guide, Santiago James Barnaby, deep into the Copper Canyon area of Mexico since 1998, photographing remote areas known for their cultural richness. In 2006 Barnaby came to the realization that the Tarahumara’s century old tradition of using the Chapeyoko masks had disappeared completely from an important area. This prompted him to meet with the village elders, dancers, and local carvers to persuade them to re-introduce the iconic mask to the dance. In the spring of 2007 Snead was invited to photograph this historic event.
Bill Faulkner’s interest in Native American cultures and photography attracted him to Kitty Alice Snead’s work. Acting as editor, Bill began collaboration with Kitty to cut and splice hours of video into a medium that expands the context of Kitty’s photographs.
Valery Guignon has worked for many years with hand built totem figures using recycled materials as a vehicle for self expression. Valery accompanied Kitty on two trips to photograph the Tarahumara. The sculptures in this show are a response to that experience, incorporating the Tarahumara mask carver’s expressions and the magic of their creative sprit. In conjunction with the exhibit, Valery will be leading two mask making workshops on 10/21 at 6:30 and on 10/24 at 3 pm for $10 each. Contact Valery directly at 214-288-0829 to reserve a space.