Tessa Wallis

Tessa Wallis, an Australian mask and puppet artist will take us through the journey of the role of the mask in this context; an article usually worn on the face, typically for protection, concealment, performance, amusement or religous rituals.

Throughout the world masks are used for their expressive power - both ritually and in performance. Masks are a familiar and vivid element in many cultures and are often of ancient origin. Masks are almost used universally and maintain their power and mystery both for the wearers and their audience.

“The Swiss Italian Festival is always a big draw card for visitors to Daylesford and I am delighted to have the opportunity to present “Meaningful Masks”, (audio-visual) on Sunday October 17 at 1:45 pm, said Melbourne Mask-maker Tessa Wallis. 

I feel qualified to share my experiences as I have travelled extensively researching masks and their role in the customs of people from many different countries; From the USA to Switzerland, from China to Rome and beyond, masks have added character and colour to the history, performance and traditions of many civilizations.

Venice is most widely recognized for masquerade as the annual Venice Carnevale fills the city to overflowing tourists keen to ou do each other with the splendour of their masks and costumes.

Like most tourists, I was completely seduced by the festive atmosphere, the artistry, the creativity and the history of Venice. It was my Venetian holiday that inspired me to begin making masks in Melbourne. For the past twenty years I have explored the niche market for custom made masks and puppets in Australia and beyond. I still find it fascinating.
Venice may be the most high profile masquerade location, but masks play an major role  for the tribes of New Guinea, the people of South America, and the diverse cultures of Japan, India, Switzerland, Indonesia. There is plenty more scope for research.

It is fortunate I am passionate about my work because it is physically and mentally demanding requiring patience and determination. There is a lot more to mask making than meets the eye! Most of the masks and puppets I design and construct are custom made. They are frequently used in performance, but also in film and television, advertising and promotion.

If you would like to see some of the masks in Tessa’s collection and view her extensive range of mask images from far and wide, book your seat for the presentation held in the Convent Gallery Chapel.Ticket cost $10

Bookonline: www.swissitalianfesta.com or telephone 0429084013 

There will be a simultaneous exhibition of performance masks, masquerade/party masks and masks for decor by Tessa at the Convent Gallery. Many will be for sale. Help celebrate the Swiss Italian Festival in style wearing masks by Tessa Wallis.