Create your own Inuit-inspired ceremonial mask!
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The masks (above) featured in the book Mama, Do You Love Me? (written by Barbara M. Joosse; illustrated by Barbara Lavallee) are modeled after the ceremonial masks traditionally used by the Inuit, native arctic people . The concentric rings within the mask represent heaven and earth. The objects attached to the rings are the individual shaman's symbols, or spiritual keepers.
These are the masks created to represent the author and artist. For example, Barbara Joosse has three children, is a writer, and loves the sun. Three of her symbols are three people, pencil and paper, and a sun.
To create your own mask follow the directions listed below.
Link to the mask and the symbols and print both pages out. You will then have materials to work with and can start creating your own mask.
1. Select up to 8 symbols (or create your own!) that describe things about you or that you like to do.
2. Color the symbols.
3. Cut them out.
4. Glue them in place on your mask.
5. Finish coloring and then cut out your finished mask!
Additional activity: Attach string to the mask or glue a popsicle stick onto the back of your mask so you can hold it up to your face!