Masks of Southwest China

The Linden Gallery’s new exhibit, “Masks of Southwest China,” will show from July 10 to August 7.

Though many masks were destroyed during the Cultural Revolution or earlier, some have survived in the remote rural areas of southern China. The exhibit, featuring masks of wood and lacquer that date back to the early 20th century, is a rare chance to see several examples of tribal masks of China.

Many of the masks on display were used in the Nuo Drama and Bianpo Plays of the ethnic Miao people of Guizhou Province. The Nuo drama plays were actually a type of exorcism performed by the village shaman. The most common ceremony includes actors and actresses performing the roles of the 36 Gods and 72 Ghosts that make up the spiritual world of the Miao people.

In the Bianpo Plays, five or ten men and women dance to the tunes of the Reed Pipe imitating the movements of farming and textile weaving. This celebration occurs after the Chinese Lunar New Year and aims to encourage the community to ensure a good harvest.

The Linden Gallery, open daily from 10 am – 5 pm, is located at Hwy 42 and Mink River Road in Ellison Bay. For more information call 920.854.2487 or visit http://www.lindensgallery.com.