For families or similar groups, we have two different proposals appropriate for the requests we generally receive


Languages: English, French and Italian
Length: 2 hours
Choice of masks: two among the 43 different models available, all in papier-mâché and handmade

Theoretical introduction: Every family or small group visiting us is different. For example, if there are small children, we can’t risk boring them with an excessively long introduction. Information for adults will be included during the practical part. In the end, we will still have managed to communicate the most fascinating things about Venetian masked life without dampening the children’s creative enthusiasm.

Brief description of creation of a typical Venetian mask, such as those chosen by the participants for decoration.


The technique is at least 800 years old! You can see all of the different phases of the production, from the clay model, the plaster mould up to the finished white mask, ready for decoration.


Description of use of masks in Venice with explanation of the most significant model, the “Bautta” and the second most important, the “Moretta”.
Venice is a unique example in the history of mankind because masks were used beyond the carnival, and they were also used in everyday life, for more than 6 months of the year!


A mask, the “Bautta”, was even used in the presence of the Doge in the most solemn moments of the social and political life!
Apart from this essential mask, we also explain the use of the “Moretta”, which is also very important, but with a completely different significance. This introduction gives an idea about this strange world; so different from today. The “Bautta” is quite complex; therefore, we dress up in front of the public explaining its different components.
Furthermore, to be more effective, we also supply a nurtured selection of images that shows examples of the aspects and use of the masks. By using blown up details of prints and paintings from that time, we can clearly indicate the significance of the masks.

Practical part: the participants choose two masks and a decorative technique from the seven available.


You will find masks of every kind: traditional venetian masks, masks for theatre (Commedia dell'Arte), fantasy masks, Venice Carnival masks, masks for children, masks for a party or as a part of your furnishing.
There are about 43 models of white papier-mâché masks to choose from. The 7 different techniques to choose from are the same that we use in our workshop. We have selected them because they can be constantly modified. This means that if somebody is not happy with the result of his or her work, together we can always modify the mask, in a stress free atmosphere, in order to obtain the desired result. Often, the participant may ask to use two different techniques on the same mask. It can certainly be done, and our answer will always be yes. Everybody has to be able to show their creativity.

They decorate their own masks absolutely freely and creatively. This is the creative phase. We even have photos of finished masks available that can help give inspiration, but once the techniques are explained the participants realize that they have total freedom of expression and they obtain a personal result. In all the years of giving mask decoration courses I have never seen one mask identical to another.


We always use acrylic paints, various wax finished and enamel metallic colours for the finishing touch, such as gold, silver and bronze. At each phase there are choices, which give different characteristics, and different expressiveness to each mask. The last phase is the choice of ribbons to use for the mask. There are of all different colours that can be matched up to each mask.


They take home their decorated masks. For the MINI COURSE FOR DECORATION, an advance payment of €70 is required to confirm the booking. The balance will be paid during the course Languages: Italian
Length: 1 hour
Choice of masks: one among 43 different models available, all in papier-mâché and handmade

Instead of the theoretical introduction on technique and history, each family will receive a copy of our book "Maschere a Venezia" (Masks in Venice) in English, French, German and Italian, covering those and other subjects.
For a description of the book, see our website: http://www.camacana.com/eng/book/index.html

Practical part: participants choose a mask and decorate it, then take it home immediately as in the previous mini course.

No advance payment is required for the ABC OF DECORATION.
The workshop is open to welcome you from Monday to Friday from 11.00 to 13.00 and from 14.00 to 18.00.

Let us know when you will be arriving and we will confirm our availability.