Deeply connected to Sri Lanka’s ancient history and folklore tales, wooden mask-making is a craft passed down from generation to generation. Masks are also a distinct element in traditional processions and festivals. Elaborate stories are typically related by dancers wearing masks and are often used during healing rites and rituals.
Experiences
Visit a local mask craftsman’s house
Cultural Arts
Meet the Craftsman
As part of the experience, you will visit the house of a local mask-making family in Ambalangoda. Your host/interpreter will introduce you to mask making and its uses before beginning to learn how a small tree log becomes a mask. They will also introduce you to the mask making family and their story. Then, the family will show you the secrets of this age-old art using their tools and finally applying paint to finished masks. This activity engages the entire family and rounds out the perfect cultural immersion.
Inclusions & Things to Note
- Number of guests: Minimum 2 and Maximum 15.
- Duration: 2.5 hours.
- Difficulty: Easy.
- Suitable for children: 6 years and above.
- Meeting time: 9 am – 11.30 am or 3.30 pm – 6 pm.
- Meeting place: Ambalangoda.
- Inclusions: Hands-on mask crafting and painting session, interpreter, visit to a local mask crafting family in Ambalangoda.
- What to wear or bring along: Just yourself and a creative mind.
- Important info: Whilst the mask painting is super easy and safe, please take precautions when you are using the tools to craft the masks as there are sharp objects involved. We do not recommend kids to take on crafting the masks unless they are teenagers.
- Making the most of it: Please pay close attention to your interpreter whilst crafting the mask so that it comes out the way you desire.
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Our experiences are mindfully curated to offer an authentic, intimate exploration into the essence of Sri Lanka.
