The bin of haphazardly selected Halloween costumery that includes plastic handcuffs, magician wands, red foam noses, and any other accessory that screams You really didnt put a lot of thought into this one also includes masquerade masks. And, unfortunately for this, the mask has lost its power of symbolism and ceremony. Well, at Masquerade: A Multi-Media Arts Events and Masquerade Ball at Gallery 101, local artists will examine the masks many functions as a wearable work of art, a means of changing or concealing ones identity, and even as a protective device. Artists like Lily Fernandez, Adam White, Virginia Metayer, and Elisabeta Hermann will explore authentic and symbolic uses of masks with a variety of media.
The opening reception runs from 7 to 11 p.m. Saturday at Gallery 101 (501 N. Andrews Ave., Fort Lauderdale). Poet Mia Roman-Hernandez and performance artist Jean Minuchin will perform, there will be wine and refreshments, and a select number of masks will be available for purchase at the door. The exhibit, curated by Helene Ruiz, includes masks and other art work and will run until June 5. Call 954-882-1861.
Sat., May 22, 7 p.m., 2010