Mask Makers Web

by Jane Odin or our delight, reflection and mild terror, San Geronimo Day brings forth the sacred clowns (koshares), those scary black-and-white-striped mischief-makers who victimize all who happen to catch their ever-searching eyes. Bad attitudes and poor manners are spotted with uncanny accuracy and instantly imitated. Society at large is under the koshares' piercing scrutiny. Sacred clowns of the Hopi and Pueblo peoples, inspired by divine spirits, teach traditional native ways. They form a bridge between the material and spiritual worlds, always contrasting the sublime and the ridiculous. It is said that their antics impact all individuals and organizations within the Pueblo. Complex subject matter at Taos Pueblo this year should make for a busy performance agenda this San Geronimo Day.

Category: Mask tradition

Added on: May 20, 2002 | Hits: 12740