Whimsical Masks

The power of a hermaphrodite who becomes a faceless woman, the passion of a psychiatrist who becomes a witch and films with her eyes all the transformations of the theater stage. She slowly captures the unexpected becomings, which surpass the linguistic conceptions of signs, and bloom into poetical signs. Whimsical Masks is surrounded by the continuous sound of a waterfall, and it takes place on a theater stage, at a splitting and uncertain present, where life and death lose their meanings, whereas the characters interact poetically, by flickering their lights outside the chronological succession of time. They have incessantly been dancing with the colorful threads of their existences, where the real and the imaginary mingle into possible pasts, throughout indeterminate and multiple futures, and into the labyrinthine presents. The force that springs from the characters' becomings turns them into the conductor of a ballet that oscillates among incongruous, uncertain time and virtual spaces, which cannot be fixed, measurable, or linear.

Armed with a vivid imagination and her trusty cat mask, Lily can take on anything--even a new school... But when her teacher tells her no masks allowed in class, Lily worries, can she make friends without it? Anyone who has been daunted by a new experience, or struggled to put on a good face, will relate to Lily. Whimsical art brings Lily, her father, and her new classmates to life, with text that begs to be read aloud. Perfect for Father's Day, back to school, and even Halloween--Lily and her grinning cat mask are sure to make you smile back.

With dozens of color photographs and fun, informative text, this guide to Japanese otafuku is a delight for collectors or Japanese culture enthusiasts. Anywhere you go in Japan you are likely to encounter the plump, smiling image of Otafuku. Author Amy Sylvester Katoh traces the roots and folk beginnings of this mythic figure, showing Otafuku's many delightful identities, and providing a magical glimpse into this charming character who has become a national icon. With a mixture of poems, photographs, anecdotes, and stories, she presents a veritable treasure chest of surprises that is sure to enchant readers.

Contains ideas and instructions for decorating the home and creating craft projects for Halloween in folk-art style, and includes information on materials, tools, and techniques, as well as patterns and templates.

38 masks to make and 8 face-painting designs to try. Detailed instructions for intricate projects. 10 yrs+

A dark tale of love, obsession, and revenge. A young woman is swept into a life of intrigue, revenge, passion, and betrayal when she falls for the world’s most notorious prince, Vlad Dracula. The year is 1464. King Matthias controls Hungary, his family, and the fate of the world’s most notorious political prisoner, Prince Vlad Dracula. Ilona Szilágy, the king’s cousin, is young and ambitious. Dracula is determined to marry into the family. It is love at first sight, but the king has other plans. The Impaler Prince, however, never takes no for an answer. Eager to become his trusted confidant, Ilona enters a treacherous world where revenge, betrayal, ambition, and passion transcend all that is sacred. And love demands the ultimate sacrifice. Woven throughout is a peek into the life and times of one of the world’s most enigmatic and maligned rulers…the man before the legend. With Bardot’s decadent period detail and a cast of gritty evocative characters, The Impaler’s Wife offers a fierce yet sensuous glimpse into the violent 15th century.

Embark on a captivating exploration of the enchanting landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture of Austria with "A Journey Through Austria: A Comprehensive Travel Guide." Authored by the seasoned traveler and cultural enthusiast, William Jones, this guide is your key to unlocking the treasures of one of Europe's most captivating destinations. About the Book: In this meticulously crafted travel guide, William Jones invites you to discover the imperial elegance of Vienna, Mozart's birthplace in Salzburg, the alpine wonders of Innsbruck, the lakeside tranquility of Hallstatt, and the vine-clad hills of the Danube Valley. With over 12 chapters dedicated to Austria's diverse regions, each section unfolds a tapestry of experiences that will leave you spellbound. What You'll Find Inside: Immersive Descriptions: Engage your senses as you read vivid and immersive descriptions of Austria's iconic cities, charming villages, and breathtaking natural wonders. Let the words transport you to the heart of this picturesque country. Cultural Insights: Gain valuable insights into Austria's rich cultural heritage, from its classical music legacy to its medieval castles. Explore the traditions of Carnivals and Festivals, and understand the significance of each celebration. Practical Tips: Navigate Austria with confidence using practical tips and travel essentials provided by the author. From understanding local customs to dressing for every season, this guide ensures a seamless and enjoyable travel experience. Hidden Gems: Uncover the hidden gems that may elude the casual traveler. From secret Alpine retreats to tucked-away culinary delights in Graz, this guide goes beyond the obvious to reveal Austria's best-kept secrets. Why Choose "A Journey Through Austria": Authoritative and Comprehensive: Written by William Jones, a seasoned traveler and cultural aficionado, this guide is a comprehensive resource that goes beyond the surface, offering a deep dive into the heart of Austria. Humanized Narrative: Experience Austria through the humanized narrative that brings each destination to life. The engaging tone of the author makes this guide not just informative but also a delightful read. Travel Wisdom: Benefit from the author's travel wisdom and insider tips, ensuring that your journey through Austria is not just a vacation but a transformative experience. Whether you're a first-time traveler to Austria or a seasoned explorer seeking new insights, "A Journey Through Austria: A Comprehensive Travel Guide" is your companion for an unforgettable adventure. Let the pages of this guidebook inspire your wanderlust and guide you through the wonders of Austria, where every chapter unfolds a new chapter in your travel story. Are you ready to begin your journey?

Kakaamotobe, meaning to scare, is known across southern Ghana, West Africa, as Fancy Dress performance. Masqueraders dress in colorful costumes and wear fancy and fierce masks; they dance energetically to drums or brass band music through the main streets of town during holidays, especially during Christmastime. Competitions held in two towns are intense annual events. This lively secular masquerade is a carnival form that has been practiced for well over a century primarily by coastal Fante people, and many additional ethnicities participate today. Kakaamotobe: Fancy Dress Carnival in Ghana explores the fascinating history, aesthetics, performance, and underlying messages of this masquerade with ties to other carnivalesque practices in the Black Atlantic. While Fancy Dress may engage with global cultures through some of its aesthetics, the practice is profoundly African. The utilization of elaborate costumes, masks, and brass bands expresses not a desire to imitate outside cultures, but rather the impulse of youth to adapt traditional culture to the contemporary environment. Courtnay Micots argues that the outward impression of folly belies the more serious refashioning of power, identity, and modernity in the community.