John McBride returns to the Historic Armory for a festival of Mask-making and Design
The Studios of Key West will kick off the 2008 Fantasy Fest revelries when John McBride returns for a creative frenzy of masked fun. From October 10 to 27, McBride will set up his Maskerville workshop inside the historic Armory, where the public can explore his unique craft and acquire one of the artist’s many original designs. As part of the lead-up to Fantasy Fest and Halloween, The Studios and McBride are offering a lecture on the tradition and history of the mask, October 10 at 8pm, followed by two special workshops in mask-making and carnival head-dress construction on October 11. Places are limited for these early-season workshops, and registrations can now be made by calling 296-0458.
“We got a taste of John’s remarkable artistry last year, when he brought an extremely popular workshop to the Armory,” said Martha Barnes, Program Coordinator. “This year, we’re not only increasing the creative opportunities, but also installing John’s workshop and creations here at The Studios.”
Fifteen years ago, a small improbable store called Maskerville opened in a quiet Key West neighborhood. It quickly aroused interest, and its reputation spread further upon moving to Bahama Village in 1996. McBride’s creations continue to develop, and in 2002 he got his first commission from Cirque Du Soleil. With increasing demand, the artist relocated to mid Florida, shifting Maskerville’s focus from retail to wholesale.
“John’s dedication to his craft, and the long tradition of the mask in our culture, is truly incredible,” said Barnes, “and we are eagerly anticipating his return to our campus and our creative community.”
Six years after leaving Key West, with his masks as best sellers in Cirque’s world boutiques, John continues his craft in spacious surroundings on the Withlacoochee River, amid Hernando County’s rolling horse and grove lands. Maintaining contact with his customers through craft fairs, exhibitions, and personal engagements, the crown jewel of McBride’s year remains his annual return to Key West for Fantasy Fest.
McBride’s 2008 residency will kick off with an free public presentation “Why We Must All Mask,” a pre-Fantasy Fest event that will offer an overview of the art form throughout history and different cultures. The artist will also discuss the function of the mask in contemporary culture, carnival celebration, and the various roles, characters, and archetypes represented by certain designs. McBride’s lecture is scheduled for 8pm on Friday 10 October, and is free and open to all.
This coming Saturday, 11 October from 9am to noon, the artist is offering his popular Maskmaking 101 workshop, followed by a 1:30pm to 4:30pm class in head-dress design and construction. After an initial overview of design principals and materials, students will learn essential skills with gluegun, scissors, beading, and feather application—and go away with a new original design in time for Fantasy Fest. Enrollment is limited, and a place can be reserved by calling The Studios of Key West at 296-0458.
The public is also invited to visit the artist’s Maskerville shop, featuring McBride’s own designs and head dresses. The temporary workshop will be installed at The Studios of Key West main hall thorugh 27 October. To learn more about this and other cultural events at The Studios of Key West, please see www.tskw.org or contact the organization’s office at 296-0458 or by email to info@tskw.org
