Vejigante Mask-Making Workshop

⚠ Important: Participants must commit to all three sessions to complete their mask. Please keep this in mind before signing up.

Led by Gabriel Rosario Mongil (Bebe Bambu), this hands-on workshop immerses students in the fundamentals of Puerto Rican mask-making using recycled materials and traditional techniques. Participants will design and create a unique character while exploring the rich history of mask-making as an artistic expression, storytelling tool, and community-building tradition.

This workshop is held in conjunction with Gabriel’s art exhibition in our Upper Gallery, running from June 29 – August 3.

Workshop Details

📅 Dates: July 13, 20, & 27
⏰ Time: 1:00 – 3:00 PM
📍 Location: Hoboken Historical Museum

Workshop Highlights

• Character design & storytelling
  
  

• Using recycled materials
  
  

• Mixing glue & layering techniques
  
  

• Mask construction & sculpting
  
  

• Painting & decorating
  
  

• Character presentation & reflection
  
  

Workshop Schedule

July 13th, 2025 –– Day 1: Introduction & Initial Construction

1. Welcome & introductions
   
   

2. Overview of materials
   
   

3. First phase of mask construction (identifying pieces)
   
   

4. Preparing layers of paper
   
   

5. Developing character concepts
   
   

6. Applying initial paper layers
   
   

7. Setting masks to dry
   
   

July 20th, 2025 –– Day 2: Structure & Form

1. Cutting out cardboard elements
   
   

2. Adding additional layers of paper
   
   

3. Sculpting facial features & defining character details
   
   

4. Reinforcing the mask structure
   
   

5. Setting masks to dry
   
   

July 27th, 2025 –– Day 3: Final Touches & Presentation

1. Reinforcing and refining masks
   
   

2. Painting & decorating
   
   

3. Character presentation
   
   

4. Final reflections
   
   

This workshop provides a dynamic, hands-on experience in the art of Vejigante mask-making, blending cultural tradition with personal creativity.