Join us for a private, 60-minute talk and tour of ¡Danza! -  Living Traditions in Mexican Ritual Masks given by Museum Curator, Professor Joyce Bishop.

This fascinating collection of 60 masks used in ceremonial dances in Mexico is on display in the Anthropology Museum in Mendocino Hall at California State University Sacramento.

The exhibit is "from a private collection and represents not only different Mexican states or provinces, but each mask also signifies a religious or historical story.  Both ancient Mexico and medieval Spain had rich traditions of historical enactment and ritual dance which used danzas, as these masks are called... They allow the museum visitor a glimpse into the wealth of dance types and mask styles in Mexico today. Ceremonial masks, which are made and used primarily in states with large indigenous populations, come in a variety of materials and textures. Their distinct forms represent the diversity of traditional stories and messages depicted through their use on Saint's Days and, in a few cases, on patriotic occasions, when they refer to historical events."  Go to ¡Danza! – Living Traditions in Mexican Ritual Masks to view the website.

If you can't make today, the exhibit will be available to the public through June 10, 2012.  Gallery hours: Tuesdays through Fridays, 1–4 PM.  Special appointments are encouraged. Visits outside of gallery hours can be arranged for most times and days.