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Watch the Maskies: The Mask Design Contest Awards Ceremony
The contestants in The Put on a Funny Face Mask Design Contest have created the most brilliant masks to have ever graced our planet. But only a few can be the winners. We announced the winners at our June 8th Awards ceremony. And you can watch the replay right here. Plus all the masks are displayed below. But we know you want to see the winners. So...
Best Use of Upcycled Material in a Mask
- 3rd Place: Dianne Rentz with the Upcycled Jeans quilted plague doctor mask
- 2nd Place: Misty Humphrey with her Crown Royal Mask
- 1st Place: Melanie Groves’s WWII parachute silk and denim mask.
Best Historical Mask.
- 3rd Place: Katie Luscombe and the Rising Tide Mask mask
- 2nd Place: Janna Kennedy Hyten's Dali's Mustache Mask
- 1st Place: Anthony Whitaker - I Am Steel Standing
Best Coney Themed Mask
- 3rd Place: Clash Vicente and Furies Revenge Mask
- 2nd Place: Tails of Glory's Spell It Out Mask
- 1st Place: Ruben Santana: The Many Facets of Coney Island
Best Formal Mask.
- 3rd Place: Ashley Baedke - A Night at the Opera Mask
- 2nd Place: Heather Raquel Phillips' Be Seen, Not Heard Mask
- 1st Place: Jenny Leigh Du Puis - Magpie Mask
Best Mermaid or Neptune Themed Mask
- 3rd Place: Kayla Elorza and her Gaudy Mermaid Mask
- 2nd Place: Mike Tillman's Shape of Water Mask
- 1st Place: Debra Scotti- Beauty of the *C*
Best Kids Mask
- 3rd Place: Cindy Benn and the Sonic Mask
- 2nd Place: Lane McLaughlin with the Crabby Mask
- 1st Place: Jessica Filomeno's Elephant Mask
Community Service Award
- Relief Crafters or America
- SMART Sheet Metal Worker's Union
- Open Source COVID19 Medical Supplies Facebook Group
Best Mask Wearing Meme
- Anonymous
Mask Makers Choice
- 3rd Place: Jennifer Erin Taves - Clear 2020 beak mask
- 2nd Place: Sarah Boll and the Cosmic Aquatic Mask
- 1st Place: Vanessa Sterbenz's Bathing Beauties Mask
Judges Choice Award
- 3rd Place: Esti Grifel - Rabbit Mask
- 2nd Place: Felipe Salcedo's Fish/Sideshow Freak Mask
- 1st Place: Adrienne Benjamin and her Anishinaabe Mask
One New York Award
- 3rd Place: Grover Gregory Guinta and the 5 Boroughs 1 Love Mask
- 2nd Place: Miriam Rankin's Brooklyn Bridge Me
- 1st Place: Suzie Sims-fletcher and Monumental
People's Choice Award
- 3rd Place: The Tailshakers - Under the Mask
- 2nd Place: Jen green and her Ice Cream Cone Mask
- 1st Place: Once Again…Suzie Sims-fletcher Hot Dog Mask
Best in Show
- 3rd Place: Leah Tinari - WWI Prosthetic Mask Homage
- 2nd Place: Allison "Little Brooklyn" Garber - Sideshow Banner Mask
- 1st Place: Melissa Lawson - MerMay Queen (f/k/a MidSalmon)
Name: Ellyn Lentz
Location: Syracuse
Description:
me ready for my Croning Ceremony a few years back at a women's gathering- Now I'm ready to be there for others who are waiting for the next ceremony!
Name: Nick Fracaro
Location: Brooklyn
Description:
Keep on smilin'
When you're smilin', baby
The whole world, it smiles with you
Name: Yvette Bognar
Location: Brooklyn NY
Description:
People like seeing my mask & get a laugh from it.
Name: Evan Tynan
Location: Denver, CO
Description:
I made a fake advertisement for the new 2020 Coney Island Hot Dog eating contest mask. Get yours before it sells out!
Name: Rona Freeman Berkowitz
Location: Manhattan
Description:
I have scraps of African fabric leftover from a quilt.
Name: Ariel Krupnik
Location: New York City
Description:
Both the most coveted covid items meet. We have now reached singularity!
Name: Dolly Dharma
Location: Ny, Ny
Description:
Crown for corona, and monogram print to illustrate the spread, I have chosen this take which interprets the virus at the turn of the century. Vinty fresh!
(*'W' is to represent Wuhan. Essentially, this is if Covid19 took place instead of the Spanish Flu)
Name: Marina Ross
Location: Brooklyn, NY
Description:
My mama was feeling pretty down because the coronavirus kept her from being able to come visit me for my birthday. She is a queen and all around a fabulous human being so I thought to cheer her up AND keep her safe I would whip up a mask that really reflects her personality. I think she likes it :)
Name: Clio A McClure
Location: Los Angeles CA
Description:
My mask has no straps holding it on. Attached to crown, earrings, and necklace. Floral print laid out to make a lion's mouth if you look hard enough. Stoned in sequins and swarovski.
Name: Allison Garber
Location: Brooklyn
Description:
With this mask on - it's like you are in the water, going for a swim with the mermaids in Coney Island.
Name: Misty Humphrey
Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
Description:
Made from Crown Royal product bags at the request of a friend, Miranda Robinson
Name: Jennifer erin taves
Location: Ridgewood queens
Description:
Clear 2020 beak mask. Flowers inside the beak and sparkles galore. Our future may not be clear but this mask is beautifully so. Atop is my first pair of dancing heels repurposed with lights
Name: Jennifer erin Taves
Location: Ridgewood queens
Description:
Mermaid bubble mask made from some beads and an old bra.
Name: Gina Jeffries
Location: MIAMI, FL
Description:
I feel like my mask speaks for itself.
Name: Melanie Groves
Location: Minneapolis, MN
Description:
Just because you have to cover-up it doesn't mean you can't look foxy!
Name: Dianne Rentz
Location: Orlando, Florida
Description:
A quilted plague doctor mask had been being shared on Facebook and I loved the design so I downloaded the free pattern from suntree a-ok from Tumblr. I decided to make it my own by merging some of the many pieces. I also had a worn-out pair of jeans I was going to throw away and decided they would be perfect for upcycling in this project. I completed this whole project in one day. And it was a much needed break in making masks for donation to the Relief Crafters of America.
Name: Joan Wortman
Location: Boston MA
Description:
My husband is an avid T-Shirt collector. I was looking for a fun way to reuse some of his older ones. I have to confess, I found some enjoyment from cutting up this SeaWorld one.
Name: Sherri Condon
Location: New London, CT
Description:
After making nearly 700 masks to donate, I needed a creative break. Your content provided the "excuse." I made these as a gift to my cousin who is getting married at the end of June. Wedding is still happening but reception is delayed. I hope that these will interject some humor and fun into a time that is otherwise really stressful for her (and all).
Name: Cindy Benn
Location: NYC
Description:
As you see my grandson Kayden and Sonic is going to run rings through this Coronavirus
Name: Janet Bowden
Location: Baton Rouge LA
Description:
Putting to use that quilted toilet paper with those extra layers of protection.
Name: Laurene Palmberg
Location: Coventry, Connecticut
Description:
Like to honor the animals of the ocean!
Name: Anthony Whitaker
Location: New York
Description:
I was dispatched down to Ground Zero to assist with the recovery efforts as a first responder. Of course I was very tense, nervous, and consumed with fear. Then one night while carrying out my work orders I was confronted with the majestic ruin of the South Towers facade. So compelling, and powerful was the physical essence of its' presence it seemed to speak, and this is what I heard; "I Am Steel, I Am Standing, I Am Steel Standing". It was so clear, simple and precise. At that very moment, all of the fear, and insecurities I possessed immediately subsided, and my entire being was overcome by peace, calmness and an overwhelming sense of security. At that very moment I felt there was no obstacle to great to overcome.
On 9/11, a huge 207′ foot tall ruin monument of STEEL that was defiantly still STANDING, became a most profound inspirational symbol, and message proclaiming the awesome power of the human spirit to overcome adversity. It literally identified itself by virtue of what it was; STEEL STANDING. You'll notice the distinctive IX XI Roman numeral frieze border trim that outlines the mask. I AM STEEL STANDING is a powerful affirmation and inspirational message that reflects the courage, strength, fortitude and resilience of the citizens of New York and the United States of America.
Name: Ms. Stephanie Vaselli
Location: Staten Island
Description:
My beautifully hand crafted mask is a n95 mask with sewn crystals to add a little bling to these unprecedented times. As a special education teacher, I think of how scary the new social norm can be for children to see, so why not make wearing a mask look inviting and appealing!
Name: Mathilde Weems
Location: Long Beach, CA
Description:
After being cooped up with no beauty salon, going stir crazy and making zillions of masks, I across some faux fur in my fabric stash to express myself regarding quarantine.
Name: Ro Sheffe
Location: Manhattan
Description:
Face masks are hard to find right now. My D.I.Y. masks are in plentiful supply in my underwear drawer, easy to disinfect in the laundry, and bring a smile to people's faces when I wear them.
Name: Charles Watts
Location: Ridgewood
Description:
My name is Joombie Chuckie and I am a stilt walker and instructor at Tropical Fete Inc. My mask design is inspired from a mascot I created for my business www.demokojumbies.com
The mascot is me as a kid on stilts. I want to show my support on wearing mask in our fight against CoVid19. #besafe
Name: Heather Raquel Phillips
Location: Philadelphia
Description:
"Be Seen, Not Heard," is part of a series of performative masks in response to government policy and the new, "masked selfie." This piece performs for all marginalized people who have been directly affected by a borderline fascist regime -now and prior to the pandemic.
This mask was made from the remnants of an altered vintage 80's prom dress.
Name: Michael Moffett
Description:
Mask was created for an art installation in New York by the artist Michael Moffett
Name: Ethan Pieternelle
Location: Washington Heights, Manhattan, New York
Description:
Made by my aunt specially for me, for protection against COVID-19
Name: Esther Negrin
Description:
I crotchet this pink mask with love. I also placed three pink hearts around it. Also on the back of the mask is a pouch that you can place tissue paper in it for protection from my various. Wearing this mask makes me into a cute kid-like individual, and I dedicate my mask to my kindergarten students in which I miss so much being their teacher!
Name: Annie Rich
Location: Brooklyn-Ditmas Park
Description:
I just though that the situation is sad enough, so I decided to make some funny/crazy masks
Name: Wallace Matthews
Location: Oyster Bay, NY
Description:
It was made out of a Coney Island T-shirt purchased on the boardwalk a couple of years ago
Name: Terri Claire
Location: Queens, NY
Description:
I had a very elaborate octopus themed costume planned for this year' festivities, so I tried my best to portray it in a cute themed N95 mask. All hand drawn with sharpies and decorated with good old hot glue.
Name: Marissa
Location: Astoria
Description:
Its a mash up between an old fashioned plague doctor mask and a gas mask
Name: Clash Vicente
Location: Queens
Description:
My mask represents the character I portray from my favorite gang in the movie The Warriors filmed at Coney Island- We are FuriesRevenge.
Name: Rachel Kessler
Location: New York (east village)
Description:
Brooklyn Roasting Company, where I work. sponsors the parade every year.
We have a booth, we hand out mermaid blend coffee. We also participate in Poseidon Prom.
It is my favorite holiday of the year. I have not missed it in 20 years.
I created a mask out of a Brooklyn Roasting Company sock. Mermaids don't have feet, afterall!
I feel it has a Coney Island quirky vibe plus it is bold and Brooklyn!
And we can still wear our fins with it!
Name: Sue Thomas
Location: Waitsfield Vermont
Description:
This mask is made out of a. New Orlean Jazz Fest "Gator!" Skirt that was too long. We cut off 15 off the bottom (now amuch more flattering length and my New Orleans friend Tracy Thompson (Kabuki Hats) made a beautiful mask and beret for me. I love it.
Name: Sister Glamarama Ding Dong
Location: Kansa City MO
Description:
Even under a mask our Sisterly love must shine through! As a Sister of Perpetual Indulgence I must create joy even in the worst of times! Wear a mask for yourself and others!
Name: Joanna Tankel
Location: NYC
Description:
I call this my "Superhero Circuit Series." It is a tribute to all essential workers, medical, sanitation, postal and food supply, but especially to the entire staff of the Isabella Geriatric Center, where my mother is a resident. Everyone, from doctors, nurses, security, custodial to food preparation staff are warm, caring, kind, compassionate and dedicated! May they and their families all be well and safe!
I hope it, also, serves to inspire my students and students everywhere to create, experiment, acknowledge and give back.
Name: Gloria Elena Otero
Location: Williamsburg, Brooklyn NY
Description:
My mask is very apocalyptic themed. The large spikes give it a Mad Max look. This mask will definitely help you with social distancing!
I make masks that are available on Etsy. 10% of my sales is donated to Direct relief to help buy PPE for healthcare workers.
Name: Rosemary Kimble
Location: Atlanta, Ga
Description:
My mask is A smile and is meant to bring smiles to all of the faces who see it. A friend who is a doctor suggests it would be the perfect mask for doctors to wear in to see children to make them laugh.
Name: Jennifer Kellogg
Location: Brooklyn, NY
Description:
An original House of Kellogg fabric design, I have incorporated a Bride of Frankentstein along with traditional seahorses, scaled it smaller, and made a mask!
Name: Rose Martin
Location: Brooklyn
Description:
Formal Mask: Black Tie, White Rhinestones
note: functionality of mask not impeded by decorations.
Name: Robert Blevins/Robyn Simms/Grace Blevins
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Description:
It's unethical to go out in public without a mask. It's also unethical to hide this beautiful face from the world. This mask solves both problems.
Name: Lucy Beaubien-Paulson
Location: Bronx, NY
Description:
I made this mask because Coney Island makes me think of candy! My mom sewed the cotton mask, and then I painted the large mouth full of candy using acrylic paints. Look carefully and you can see gumdrops, gummy bears, caramels, and a rainbow lollipop!
Name: Janna Kennedy Hyten
Location: Brooklyn to St Pete Floridan
Description:
Octomask is the perfect mask to scare away any Covids lurking out there!!!! The Sea Anemone is hosting his clownfish friends!
Name: Janna kennedy Hyten
Location: St Pete Florida
Description:
This is Fishface. I thought I posted this one, but I'm not sure.
Name: Esther Negrin
Description:
I crotchet this mask and added two eyes (green flowers with yellow) and a bell nose.
My mask looks like the movie Coraline. The adventures girl name Coraline finds a parallel world, an alternative world that contains a dark secret.
I have buttons sewn over my eyes just like Coraline, and a bell nose to warn others to stay social distance. My mask has no mouth
since I want to protect myself from the virus. This alternative "dark" world is a world I don't want to be but I would like the world to go back to the way it was before the Coronavirus.
Name: Mira Singer
Description:
I had been saving this design to make into something, and now seemed like the time
Name: Janna Kennedy Hyten
Location: St Pete Florida
Description:
Well, I made a mermaid mask because I can't enter the parade this year as a mermaid!! LOL...she's actually very comfortable to wear!
Name: Lindsay Goranson
Location: Pittsburgh, PA
Description:
Inspired by the decade I spent on the beaches of Coney Island celebrating with my fellow mer-folk, my mask (The Ringwald) celebrates all things too neon, too teased, and too much. Which is exactly the way I like it.
Name: Joanna Tankel
Location: NYC
Description:
This is #1 of my "Retro Futuristic Superhero Series" or "Steampunk Superhero Series"? It is a tribute to all essential workers, medical, sanitation, postal and food supply, but especially to the entire staff of the Isabella Geriatric Center, where my mother is a resident. Everyone, from doctors, nurses, security, custodial to food preparation staff are warm, caring, kind, compassionate and dedicated! May they and their families all be well and safe!
I hope it, also, serves to inspire my students and students everywhere to create, experiment, acknowledge and give back.
Name: Miriam Rankin
Location: BROOKLYN
Description:
The Covid Crazy mask shows the virus running amok like teeny, tiny meteorites of Death!
Name: Erik Bartlett
Location: Boston, Massachusetts
Description:
Although I may be from Cape Cod, I love Coney Island like no other place. It was where I proposed to my darling wife and where we got married. We may not be able to visit anytime soon, but Coney Island is always on my mind. I decided to make a mask based on a picture I took of the graffiti. Last time we visited the People's Playground, I decided to play a little game, a scavenge hunt, of taking a picture of every Tillie sticker I came across. I found nearly 70 Coney Island Funny Face stickers in and around the amusements area. This Tillie trio was my favorite. I took the original photo and turned it black and white.
Name: Erik Bartlett
Location: Boston, Massachusetts
Description:
Although I may be from Cape Cod, I love Coney Island like no other place. It was where I proposed to my darling wife and where we got married. We may not be able to visit anytime soon, but Coney Island is always on my mind. How I'm dreaming of Coney Island banana-pistachio twist. I decided to make a mask based on a picture I took of the graffiti. Last time we visited the People's Playground, I decided to play a little game, a scavenge hunt, of taking a picture of every Tillie sticker I came across. I found nearly 70 Coney Island Funny Face stickers in and around the amusements area. This Tillie trio was my favorite.
Name: Ruben Santana
Location: Bronx
Description:
This mask is celebrating one of the many faucets of Brooklyn,s Coney Island. The first responders , health care givers, and essential workers that keep the lights on and wheel turning.
Name: Londa Holliday
Location: Santa Cruz, California
Description:
"mixed media mask on canvas" - wood framed canvas with mixed media paper, molding paste and gorilla tape. Elastic ear attachments.
Name: Londa Holliday
Location: Santa Cruz, California
Description:
"Sideshow Glamour" - utilizing fabulous sideshow banners I happen to have and hold dear to fashion a glamorous and functional protective face mask. Backing made from deconstructed cotton twill baseball cap.
Name: Londa Holliday
Location: Santa Cruz, California
Description:
Screaming Hand - a classic Santa Cruz Skateboard logo with an admonishment to Cover Your Mouth!
Made from a deconstructed cotton twill baseball cap + a pair of tiny hands.
Name: Melanie Groves
Description:
Sometime you've got to go BEAST MODE to combat the the misinformation spread by people who won't wear a mask!
Name: Joanna Tankel
Location: NYC
Description:
This is my tribute to Wonder Woman/Flash Gordon. I like that the mechanisms are visible; one can see how it works. Also, when the copper foil conductive tape, LED leads and solder are visible, it gives a steampunk vibe and the copper is like jewelry.
Name: HeAther Phillips
Location: Philadelphia
Description:
Lots of folks are out on the streets yelling, "the show must go on!" So I built a miniature stage for the face, where we can stay behind the curtains until it is showtime. At this point in time, I have, "Stage Fright!"
Name: Jean McGillicuddy
Location: Naples FL (formerly Manhattan)
Description:
Bought a sewing machine at the start of coronavirus and have donated hundreds of masks (now selling them). This is a deep turquoise sequined mask I made for my friends daughter (pictured). I think it fits the formal theme. Will design more creative ones and submit them! I now sell them under an LLC I created Palm Pool and Protected (like Calm Cool and Collected).
Name: Jean McGillicuddy
Location: Naples, FL
Description:
Hello I taught myself sewing at the beginning of the coronavirus and have made hundreds for family and friends at risk, as well as local hospice and elderly neighbors. Now sell them under Palm Pool and Protected LLC. I called this mask the "Hope and Courage" mask and had entered another mask when I realized this would fit under the Encouragement meme.
Name: Kayla Elorza
Location: New York City, NY
Description:
If you put a muppet, a clown, and a handful of children's art supplies into a blender, this is what would probably crawl out of it.
My mask is all about color, movement, and absurdity. Just dance and watch it come alive! This mask also features a flash-able sequin mouth, for when you lock *eyes* with the cutie across the dance floor. Having a party on your face has never been so safe.
Name: Joanna Tankel
Location: NYC
Description:
I, especially, like that this mask evokes scuba diving helmets of a bygone era. The feature I like most, other than the LEDs, is the beautiful copper TOILET TANK FLOAT with it's fluted and gracefully elongated spherical "dome." I would like to send a shout-out to the good people at Chibitronics who invented & produce the LED stickers which, with their built in resistors and sticker-design, allowed me to use 5 blue, SOLDERLESS LEDs!
Name: Suzanne Beaubien
Location: Bronx, New York
Description:
Inspired by the art deco style of NYC's famed Chrysler building, I created this bedazzling rhinestone-covered formal mask for some future fancy occasion. New Year's Eve, perhaps?
Name: Donna Block
Location: Brooklyn NY
Description:
Shaken from a deep sea dream... a sculpted membrane encircles the head while also covering the nose and mouth creating a new persona which is prickly, yet protected.
Name: HeAther Phillips
Location: Philadelphia
Description:
A reimagined Easter Bonnet, burlesque style
Name: Joanna Tankel
Location: NYC
Description:
TWO MORE! Variations on a theme: Superhero Circuit Series
They are a tribute to all essential workers, medical, sanitation, transportation, postal and food supply, but especially to the entire staff of the Isabella Geriatric Center, where my mother is a resident. Everyone, from doctors, nurses, security, custodial to food preparation staff are warm, caring, kind, compassionate and dedicated! May they and their families all be well and safe!
I hope it, also, serves to inspire my students and students everywhere to think, create, experiment, acknowledge and give back.
Name: Lily
Location: p o box, 222, San Francisco, CA 94104
Description:
I DIY the mask by hand Cross Stich Embroidery, to show the beauty of nature, and my admiration to have the quarantine end and go back to the beautiful scenery of nature!
Name: Adrienne Benjamin
Location: Isle, Minnesota
Description:
I am an indigenous artist. My mask is made from using several different regalia and art techniques used by Anishinaabe (Ojibwe) people today for various items from ceremony to traditional dress. My tribe (Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe) is known for the jingle dress, and I added the cones to pay homage and respect to that.
Name: Joanna Tankel
Location: New York
Description:
This is a tribute to all essential workers, medical, sanitation, transportation, postal and food supply, but especially to the entire staff of the Isabella Geriatric Center, where my mother is a resident. Everyone, from doctors, nurses, security, custodial to food preparation staff are warm, caring, kind, compassionate and dedicated! May they and their families all be well and safe!
Shall we call this Icarus? Or Warrior Princess? An angel statute a friend gave me years ago had to sacrifice her wings and the "mouthpiece" is part of a fixture from a lamp.
Name: Joanna Tankel
Location: New York
Description:
New & Improved Warrior Goddess w/Eyeball!
Name: cinishii
Location: STUCK IN LOS ANGELES SINCE MARCH !!!!! argh !
Description:
KIDS MASK that I made for all my f iend's kids !
Name: Suzanne Beaubien
Location: Bronx, New York
Description:
I design and create costumes for Riverdale Children's Theatre in the Bronx. Thanks to Covid 19, two of this season's shows (Legally Blond and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat) moved to online rehearsals and performances, while one (Oliver) was cancelled altogether. Knowing how much theatre means to these kids and teens, I was inspired to create this series of masks celebrating the lead characters of six shows from this season. Can you match the mask to the main character from a Broadway show?
Name: Joanna Tankel
Location: New York
Description:
Mother Nature Prevails! The silver lining to this whole pandemic is that Mother Nature is celebrating record decreases in carbon emissions!
Name: Kirsten Aurelius
Location: Lexington KY
Description:
(Anyone else feeling pulled under?!)
Name: Miriam Rankin
Location: BROOKLYN
Description:
The Brooklyn Bridge is my favorite site in New York City so I figured why not wear it.
Name: Sandra Bartlett
Location: Boston, MA
Description:
Thoughts of the Mermaid Parade-the mask itself is made from sequined fabric I want to use for my next Mermaid costume. The adornments are shells and strings of glass pearl beads left over from my past costume. The ribbon ties are made from the ribbon I got for my wedding under the Parachute Jump last summer.
Name: Dr Deb windham
Location: Southern California
Description:
I'm a sacred clown and my fellow sacred clown had this made for me special by friends at carnie couture
Name: April Massaro
Location: Brooklyn
Description:
My mask is from my friends at calabrese they are a band from Arizona.
Name: Shelby R McCaulley
Location: Westland, Michigan, USA
Description:
I have been making and donating masks due to Covid-19 since March. At first it was difficult to start wearing a mask, because I feel like it takes up a good bit of our personality by covering half of our face - so I set out to make masks that are FUN and full of personality!
In my submission, my lovely friend and world renowned burlesque star ROXI D'LITE can be seen wearing my extra special fringe mask. Not only fun to look at, but fun for the wearer as well.
Name: Shelby R Mccaulley
Location: Westland, Michigan, USA
Description:
I began sewing cloth masks in March due to Covid, and at first had a difficult time wearing my own. I felt like half of my personality was hidden, and it saddened me that I had to compromise my smile at a time when we needed them the most in the world!
So, I set out to make masks that each had a big personality of their own, that made the wearer feel proud to wear, and perhaps a bit silly as well.
In this submission I am wearing what I refer to as my "Mary Anne" mask, (After the adorable farm-chic character from TV show Gilligan's Island) and of course the matching scrunchie!
Name: Shelby McCaulley
Location: Westland, Michigan, USA
Description:
I wanted to make masks for myself and my friends that didn't have to compromise our fun, lively personalities. Attached is a photo of my friend, Courtney Mester from Livonia Michigan, wearing a mask and scrunchie I designed.
Name: Shelby McCaulley
Location: Westland, Michigan, USA
Description:
Do you remember the slightly terrifying puppet/doll: "Hugo: Man of 100 faces" from 1975?
Well if you're lucky, you may not. However, if you are charmed by creepy cute things like me, you may want to check him out.
Hugo has been a buddy of mine for life - so it's no shocker that he got his own mask too!
Name: Jessica Burkey
Location: Poughkeepsie NY
Description:
I was dismayed when this fabric arrived. I though "what am I going to do with such and obnoxiously bright yellow?" The answer; make an obnoxiously fun Pikachu mask, of course!
Name: Brian Stansifer York
Location: Washington Heights Manhattan
Description:
My COVIDisco mask features over 100 rhinestones I applied by hand. The mask is perfect COVID Couture for a black tie gala or badass look with a black leather jacket.
Name: Nathalia JMag
Location: Bosto, MA
Description:
My mask was inspired by sailor moon! Ive been designing functional masks since the pandemic started and I wanted to have some fun with this one!
Name: Adrienne M Benjamin
Location: Mille Lacs, Minnesota
Description:
These are masks that I made for a couple that is getting married in two weeks with plans to respect social distancing and mask wearing during their ceremony!
I suppose this could be entered under formal...
Name: zenon duda
Location: st mary
Description:
Created as a component of my performance art piece "Speak to Me Only with Thine Eyes"
Masks may cover and protect when all that is contained in the soul is still seen. For years people sought to ban Burkahs and Chadurs but now we all find ourselves wearing masks for protection.
Name: Victoria Golos
Location: Astoria, NY
Description:
See No Evil, Hear No Evil, COUGH NO EVIL!
Name: Joanna Tankel
Location: New York
Description:
SUPERINDECISIVE! - another one for the Superhero collection. Superindecisive is the answer to someone, like myself, who is incredibly indecisive and can't make up their mind. VELCRO provides the opportunity to change & personalize the mask infinitely & instantaneously!
Name: Rita Frazier Normandeau
Location: LIC Arts District, Queens, NYC
Description:
Made from recycled Senior Citizen food delivery container
Name: Hope Carpenter
Location: Salem Ma
Description:
"F" You I'm a Queen. A face mask fit for the Oscars, taking out the garbage or flipping off the unwashed masses. Gold fibers, appliqué and gold embroidery. Tactical straps insure mask won't come off even during pole dances. Full HEPA Filter lining to keep Out plague, and morals.
Name: Antoinette Bruguera
Location: Brooklyn
Description:
FYL brand embroidered funny face mask (with pockets for insulation)
Name: Janna Kennedy Hyten
Location: St Pete Florida
Description:
"Batty" is made with black cotton, 2 Red Chech glass bead (beady) eyes, 2 black glass bead nose , glow in the dark fangs.
Name: Joanna Tankel
Location: New York
Description:
From the Halloween coffers...GLOWOMAN!
Name: Ellen y Chen
Location: 103 kelsey court, scotts valley, CA
Description:
Axolotls mask: this sea creature, Axolotls, salamanders are so cute, always makes me smile ! They are named after "Xolotl" god of fire and lighting.
Axolotls have ability to regenerate their body parts , just so cool !
Name: Allison "Little Brooklyn" Garber
Location: Brooklyn
Description:
An ode to the classic sideshow banner - but this exhibit is no oddity. Love is what connects us! All Real! Alive on the inside! Step right up.... no wait, not to close.
Name: Marisa Acocella
Location: 400 East 55th Street
Description:
It speaks mythical truth. I'm a cartoonist I sent a drawing.
Name: Conchi Vitale
Location: NYC
Description:
I have designed a heart emblem on my mask,
Call the CareHeart Mask. When wearing my CHmask is showing that you care for your safety and the safety of Others. The CareHeart mask is 100% Cotton cloth, washable, reusable, and eco friendly.
Name: Amanda Walker
Location: Niskayuna, ny
Description:
This is the mask I made to wear daily at my animal hospital. My patients and clients may not be able to see my smile but I can still put on a happy face
Name: Sin Dee
Location: Elmhurst, Queens, NYC
Description:
I like to call this "Ode to the Sideshow". Inspired by the Coney Island Circus Sideshow. It features a two-headed baby skeleton. Inspired by the heavy body modifications in freak shows, I add rows of faux and real piercings strung from the mask. A simple "side" and "show" text tie it all in. Let your Freak Flag Fly!
Name: Melissa Lawson
Location: Astoria
Description:
An ode to my favorite movie and color of fish...I give you MidSalmon
Can I re - enter with a new mask name...
An ode to my favorite movie...I call this the MerMay Queen!
Name: Susan Serpe
Location: Bensonhurst Brooklyn
Description:
My mask is all hand crafted a muslin base of cotton, hand sewn beading and appliques of pearl and sequin all in white...a victorian wedding style
Name: Leah Tinari
Location: East Village
Description:
My mask is a hand painted custom portrait of your face. The concept is to paint custom masks of people's actual faces,the idea is based off of the WWI prosthetic masks, the reformative masks. Basically bringing peoples smiles and lip service back to NYC streets. Restoring the smiles and personal connections, humanity to the streets while still wearing a mask!
Name: Felipe Salcedo
Location: New York
Description:
The inspiration for my mask is a cross between a fish and a side show freak. I wanted it to be both elegant and hysterically outlandish!
Name: Cayla Anderson
Location: Denver, CO
Description:
While making masks out of an old pair of jeans, my dad opted for the most fashionable option.
Name: Melanie Groves
Location: Minneapolis, MN
Description:
What could be more formal than wearing an $80 million dollar piece of fine art? (Or a hand crafted wet felted homage to it?)
Claude Monet "Pond with Waterlilies"
Name: Miranda Gonzalez
Location: New York
Description:
For me mine is honoring Puerto Rico heritage ~ My husband just wanted a smiling face mask and my son's mask is from a character of Mario Bro. ~ all our masks are made by my girlfriend and her website is Stuffbylindao@gmail.com
Name: Suzie Sims-Fletcher
Location: astoria
Description:
SeaGull's Fancy
A usable mask, covered with long white feathers, short speckled pink feathers, rose buds, rhinestones, tulle, sequins, and a full blown blossom - everything a a girl gull desires.
Made at Easter, during a break from manic mask making for front-line responders. SeaGull's Fancy offered a delightful pause.
Name: Suzie Sims-fletcher
Location: Astoria
Description:
HOT DOG! Face Mask
Dirty Water, Coney, frank, weiner, or just plain DOG – not much is more American than a HOT DOG! Whether covered with mustard, kraut, chilli, or cheese, we just love ‘em.
While this big mouth HOT DOG! Face Mask probably won't win the contest for the most dogs eaten, he probably doesn't care: he might have the biggest!
Hot Dog! Face Mask is proud to be made with fabric scraps left from sewing front-line scrub caps.
Name: Joanna Tankel
Location: New York
Description:
Classic Casual Chic!?/Irreverent Classical Casual Chic!? DENIM defines a generation!
Name: Stefanie A Queale
Location: Brooklyn
Description:
This year was my tenth mermaid parade so I incorporated the vibes of the day and wore some Of my creations From over the years for the photo. Mermaid parade is the best day of the year, better than my birthday!! I moved to Coney Island so I could be close to the parade and I've been here for five years it's the best place to live on earth <3
Name: Carol Palladino
Location: Brooklyn, NY
Description:
Inspired by my favorite childhood story The Little Mermaid, and a favorite tune "Under the Sea". And in honor of the postponed Coney Island Mermaid Parade that has been a part of my growing up in Brooklyn for my past 60 years!
Name: Brianna Belladonna
Location: Boston
Description:
I'm a super fan of horror movies so of course when I saw this contest "Silence of the lambs" was the first thing that came to mind. I embroidered the death head moth myself. It was my first time trying embroidering which was a lot of fun and it definitely helped pass the time during quarantine. Can't wait till Coney island opens up again. Till then I hope everybody is happy and healthy!!!
Name: Hope Carpenter
Location: Salem MA
Description:
Kabuki Kita (North). Now you can be dramatic and wear lipstick whilst wearing a facemask! Made from oven baked clay, finished with watercolor pencils, theatrical makeup, pearls and beads.
Name: Briana Deserio
Location: Brooklyn
Description:
This mask was inspired by jelly fish. It has 3 different types of fabric and the tentacles are made witch crystals. You can manipulate each tentacle in any direction.
Name: Briana Deserio
Location: Brooklyn
Description:
Balloons are suitable for all ages! Don't worry these hand painted balloons won't float you away
Name: Briana Deserio
Location: Brooklyn
Description:
My favorite cookie as a child ...... and now. I always loved 7 layer/rainbow cookies. Good thing these hand painted cookies are 0 Calories.
Name: Briana Deserio
Location: Brooklyn
Description:
Did somebody say bubbles ? This hand painted mask makes me want to blow bubbles or soak in a tub... or maybe both.
Name: Briana Deserio
Location: Brooklyn
Description:
This mask represents waves moving and hitting the sunlight. (Also reminds me of gills) It is pink fabric with a layer of metallic navy blue tulle.
Name: Briana Deserio
Location: Brooklyn
Description:
This mask is made using square clear sequence. Represents fish scales/mermaid scales. Shines and reflects with every move.
Name: Briana Deserio
Location: Brooklyn
Description:
This mask is a dainty fish net. Made with silk and thin gold metallics tulle.
Name: Briana Deserio
Location: Brooklyn
Description:
Something old , new and blue. Why only have Toile de Jouy curtains when you can have a face mask too. This is an oldie but goodie.
Name: Yun-Ting Tsai
Location: Rego Park, New York, USA
Description:
The title of my work is called "STAY" Mask.
I use chenille stems to create this work of art. I make a mask cover that contains the word "STAY" between the frame of the mask. My goal is to connect with this pandemic of COVID-19. The government and these hard-working medical staffs always appeal to people to stay home for protecting not only others but also ourselves. In these months, we hope our family, our friends, and each essential workers to stay safe and be well. Therefore, I think "STAY" is a powerful word during this situation.
For the color of letters, I choose chenille stems of neon yellow, neon green, and orange. I think that these bright colors can not only emphasize the importance of staying home and staying safe but also catch people's eyes. Furthermore, due to the strength of the chenille stems, I establish a mask cover instead of a mask. People can put clothes and tissue behind the cover; otherwise, there are empty spaces between letters. I think this mask cover can be useful because the user can switch the insides to re-use the mask. In this contest, I really enjoyed the mask making process and learned to use a new medium. I believe the audience will also love this mask. Thank you
Name: Briana Deserio
Location: Brooklyn
Description:
Gold brocade mask. Fancy mermaid feels . Perfect for a quarantine parade.
Name: Briana Deserio
Location: Brooklyn
Description:
Fancy mermaid mask for a wedding. Beaded floral tulle on silk.
Name: Briana Deserio
Location: Brooklyn
Description:
Why have a wedding veil when you can have this white lace mask.
Name: Linda Calabrese
Location: Brooklyn
Description:
These were inspired by my grandson missing his High school senior prom. Her dress was gonna be a light blue. His tux had a cummerbund and matching tie.
Name: Linda Calabrese
Location: Brooklyn
Description:
Granddaughters 5th birthday Little Mermaid theme social distancing party
Name: Leslie Lone
Location: Jersey City, NJ
Description:
Part of the Fauci Fan Club? Now twice as effective with Dr. Fauci on your face!
Name: Sabina Mollot
Location: New Jersey (formerly Brighton Beach, Brooklyn)
Description:
Coney Island icon Tillie as the various incarnations of Joker. (Just when you thought the Steeplechase funny face couldn't look any more maniacal!) My watercolor illustration transferred onto fabric mask courtesy of an art merch manufacturer.
Name: Jason Chatfield
Location: New York
Description:
I drew it myself! I'm a cartoonist for the new Yorker and got bored of wearing boring masks.
Gets me some interesting looks when I'm walking the dog.
Name: Sarah Boll
Location: San Francisco
Description:
My mask is handmade from metallic leather, crystals, and a collection of sequins I brought home from Istanbul. I have named it the Cosmic Aquatic.
Name: Ada Lin
Location: Brooklyn
Description:
Mask is made of iridescent vinyl, rivers, glue-on rhinestones and gold chains. It represents a hybrid of magnificent underwater creatures.
Name: Hiroko Furukawa
Location: at our store SAKAYA
Description:
"Face" face masks. I had this "face" fabric at home and thought that it was funny to make this "face" into masks.
Name: John Delaney
Location: TOMS RIVER
Description:
My mask showcases and pays tribute to the Statue of Liberty. I designed the image in the playful style from the 80's to represent my childhood of living in her shadow in Jersey City. Putting Lady Liberty on a mask is a great way to showcase your love for Liberty and what she stands for.
Name: John Delaney
Location: TOMS RIVER
Description:
Music comforts in times of stress. This mask is designed with a muscian playing playing the blues with a guitar. A great mask to show your love for music while keeping others safe.
Name: John Delaney
Location: TOMS RIVER
Description:
Fend off evil under the veil of death. This mask showcases a crystalized skull designed by the artist, John Delaney, to symbolize strength against fear.
Name: Ariel Krupnik
Location: New York
Description:
Years of competing in beard competitions, months of wearing face masks, have led us down this path - to the best of both (strange) worlds.
Name: Tamara Boncic-Heins
Location: New Hyde Park, NY
Description:
Day of the dead theme mask, for anyone that likes skulls. I also wear it over my N95 mask at work. I'm and ER nurse, and am currently making more masks for my co workers too!
Name: Noah Klein
Location: Brooklyn
Description:
The 'Sea Green Geometric Protection' mask keeps your mouth covered. It has the added benefit of deterring you or anything else from touching your face.
Name: Kristen Kutzli
Location: Center of Country—Missouri
Description:
While I wear a mask every day, this particular one became an art form over an article of practicality. When I first read about the contest my head whirred with so many ideas, until it finally settled on the one you will see, which is an echo of King Kong from days gone by. I chose this theme for several reasons. First, with the COVID-19 pandemic attacking , I feel it is like a huge, scary King Kong -ish monster trying to take over the world. Secondly, from an historical standpoint, there are very few old "horror" flicks that stick out in people's minds when thirdly, mentioning New York in conjunction. I am glad I had the opportunity to do something creative and out of the ordinary with an apparatus currently associated with sickness and fear.
Name: Deyvis Halbin
Location: Jamaica
Description:
It's a tropical blow fish. Don't get to close or the fish is going to blow. Safe distance is better
Name: Penny Pennline
Location: New York
Description:
My friend Holly Frances made this beautiful glitter mermaid mask for me because I am delivering Meals on Wheels to the homebound and elderly and she thought it would brighten their days! I get so many compliments on it and they always laugh! Also she knows I love mermaids and am in the mermaid parade every year!
Name: Sabina Mollot
Location: New Jersey (formerly Brighton Beach, Brooklyn)
Description:
This illustration aims to pay tribute to one of Coney Island's amusement pioneers as well as its famous Mermaid Parade by incorporating a "Tillie"-faced shark in pursuit of a mermaid. I didn't sew this mask, but it is my illustration design transferred onto a mask provided by a third party manufacturer.
Name: Michelle Ralph-Forton
Location: Brooklyn
Description:
My handsewn masks are fun and vibrant, to bring positivity in a troubling time. The cheetah print makes me feel empowered, while the rainbow and phone print feel appropriate to wear because phone calls to loved ones during self-isolation has been imperative. The rainbow is also a symbol of solidarity and hope for better days. This mask is made of quilters cotton, fabric recommended by the CDC. Both masks have an interior pocket to add a filter in the inside.
Name: Dree Andrea
Location: New York City/Amsterdam
Description:
Born in Amsterdam, but a New York City resident for over 25 years, Cooney Island has always been a creative inspiration, a Dreamland, to me. And it's featured in my documentary 'All visitors must be announced'! It's me on the mask, drawn by me, in our recent inside out upside down world, looking towards a positive future where we've learned from this weird and tough lesson to be more empathic and creative! ; )
Name: Tatiana Ilina
Location: Brooklyn
Description:
This is mask protects from coronavirus, I made in from old union soviet carnival masks.
Name: Jaime Filomio
Location: New Rochelle, NY
Description:
It is the Berserker Beak Beast of Coney Island. He put umbrellas in cocktail drinks and strikes first vengeance in the hearts of many.
Name: Eliska Slovakova
Location: The Netherlands
Description:
This one really keeps people 6 foot away :) I have designed my own zero-waste face masks so this one is hand painted on recycled cotton cloth. www.thegoodmask.nl
Name: Molly Cox
Location: Greenpoint, Brooklyn
Description:
Want to feel like your decked out and ready for a night on the town even when there is no night on the town available to you? This bedazzled mask has the perfect amount of flare to make you look festive and fun while also keeping you safe. Perfect for a dance party at home, the rhinestones will move with you! Pairs well with glitter on the eyelids.
Name: Suzie Sims-fletcher
Location: Astoria
Description:
For Big Brother Lukas
Last week, six year old Lukas became a big brother! (another) big change in a little person's life. The For Lukas mask echoes his daddy's fancy pompon coat, features his googly-eyed family (daddy, mommy, Lukas, and, of course, baby brother), while welcoming other friends: happy bumble bee, clown nose ladybug, and slow and steady snail. What good company.
A mask that covers a disposable mask, filter, or other not so fun, face protection, For Lukas can be gently washed as the pompons were sewn on by hand. The elastic ties are long enough to be fixed behind the ears for a fun bobble effect, or tied behind so that, just like mom, he will have "eyes in the back of his head."
Name: The TailShakers
Location: Brooklyn
Description:
Typically in the spring, or what The TailShakers refer to as, "Mermaid Season," our team is busy preparing dance routines that are choreographed to travel down Surf Ave and the boardwalk, for The Coney Island Mermaid Parade! During Mermaid Season, we meet up to practice in parks, at the studio, on stoops, down the street, and we've been known to perform our routines unexpectedly at random bars. New friendships blossom and our community grows as veterans and new recruits come together across the five boroughs to dance, laugh, plan glittery mermaid theme costumes, and share an emotional and artistic outlet.
"Under the Mask", is a representation of our 2020 Mermaid Season. The images of our mysterious masked mermaids, illustrate the solitude of our new, concealed, and socially distant, "normal." The second series of portraits reveal the varying emotions that we've been experiencing hidden beneath the mask, or in our isolation. Finally, the Zoom-like format shows how we've been able to adapt, and stay together; continuing to teach new dances, have Saturday socials, dance parties, and provide the space for our community to put their dancing shoes on, with a wig and some sequin, and feel free to express ourselves!
A special shout out to Coney Island USA for inspiring us to create what has been a cathartic and important project for our TailShaker community!
Name: Vanessa Sterbenz
Location: Woodside
Description:
My mask called Dive In ,was inspired by all of us being stuck in a fish bowl during quarantine. Can't wait to get out to the beach sometime soon.
Name: Vanessa Sterbenz
Location: Woodside
Description:
Flamingo Face was inspired by the happiness of a beach vacation
Name: Tails of Glory Mermaids
Location: Brooklyn
Description:
Our masks spell out the name of our group, the Tails of Glory Mermaids. They are modeled by 25 members of our group from all over the country-- New York, California, Colorado-- even Boise!
This year would have marked our 19th year marching in the parade. We are sending all of our love to the wonderful people of Coney Island USA-- we hope you are all doing well. We miss you so much and can't wait to be together again to celebrate our 20 year anniversary with you all next year.
Mermaids Forever! Coney Island Forever!
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
The Tails of Glory
Name: Vanessa Sterbenz
Location: Woodside New York
Description:
Inspired by bathing beauties, curiosities, and a little bit of magic what rang through then lives on today.
Name: Ashley Baedke
Location: Brooklyn, NY
Description:
Who says safety can't still be glamorous? This handmade mask is the perfect accessory for a night at the opera. It is made of black satin with black beaded/sequined appliques and individually applied rhinestones and pearls. Complete with a long strand of pearls to secure the mask around your head which doubles as a necklace.
Name: Kayla Elorza
Location: New York City, NY
Description:
This mask is something only the most gaudy, over the top mermaid would wear. This mermaid is always on the hunt for buried treasure so that she can adorn herself with the shiniest pearls and shells.
Name: Trisha Sullivan
Location: Inwood
Description:
It is a sea creature, meant for the parade itself. The mouth portion is separate. So is this one entry or two? I guess you get to decide. The outfit will be a necklace of 2 liter coke bottles and other flotsam.
Name: Trisha Sullivan
Location: Inwood
Description:
Steeple chase inspired paper mache mask
Name: JANNA KENNEDY HYTEN
Location: St Pete Florida
Description:
I made my Dali Moustache mask by hand painting his lower face on a cup shaped mask and made the mustache from EVA. I am also a Dali Zodiac at the Dali Museum here in St. Pete!!
Name: Geoff Rawling
Location: South Bronx
Description:
My Coneyvirus Beast Mask is made from cardboard, spray foam, found objects, foam pipe insulation, old paint brushes etc. It symbolizes the fearsome Spirit of Covid meeting The Young Mermaid of Midsummer and instead of devouring her...They CELEBRATE ! The Beauty & The Coneyvirus Beast
Name: Natalie Ramirez
Location: Takoma Park, Maryland
Description:
This mask was inspired by mermaids under the sea. Sea shell bits, beads, pearls, sequins, and aluminum soda tabs adorn this face covering.
Name: April Palmieri
Location: Brooklyn NY
Description:
Awed by the Covid19 images, I incorporate the iconic form to honor and ward off its power.
Name: Grover GUINTA
Location: Downtown Manhattan
Description:
I came up with the idea of The NYC 5 boroughs heart shaped map design just after 911. It was something I drew on my shirts at the time. I thought this would be a good symbol for NYC at this time so I came up w a few versions digitally designed. This one is for healthcare workers and a photo of my cousin and her friend who's hospital staff was redeployed to cover Covid Positive cases.
Name: Willa Olive Sullivan
Location: 35 West 110 Street Apt 6H
Description:
My daughter is 11 and she made these masks She made a mermaid tshirt mask a carousel mask and a ball gown mask. I hope you like them!
Name: GROVER GREGORY GUINTA
Location: Lower Manhattan
Description:
I came up with the idea of The NYC 5 boroughs heart shaped map design just after 911. It was something I drew on my shirts at the time. I thought this would be a good symbol for NYC at this time so I came up w a few versions digitally designed. These are sweetest guys in my corner Bodega (essential workers)
Name: GROVER GREGORY GUINTA
Location: Lower Manhattan
Description:
I came up with the idea of The NYC 5 boroughs heart shaped map design just after 911. It was something I drew on my shirts at the time. I thought this would be a good symbol for NYC at this time so I came up w a few versions digitally designed. This is my mom who grew up on Lower East Side
Name: Jessica Filomeno
Location: Brooklyn
Description:
Hi there! I love elephants. I was excited to make a mask for this contest with my totem. I used a print and solid cotton and cotton blend fabrics to make this mask. It has a wire to adjust over your nose and a filter to add protection. I feel like kids and adults could use it. The ears and trunk have poly-fiber fill to give them that plush and 3D effect. The elastic is set to a standard length. I made the mask from scratch and my teenage daughter is the model. I just might make myself an elephant for Halloween this year lol and wear it. I hope you like it. It is fun just participating. Thank you for your time and stay safe. :)
Name: Lisa Solitario
Location: Bay Ridge Brooklyn
Description:
This mask was created by my friend living abroad at the moment in honor of all health care professionals
Name: Kevin K Powell
Location: Forest Hills, Queens NY
Description:
I work as an essential worker at Target in Forest Hills Queens where I would say over 98% of our guests come in wearing a protective mask, which is encouraging, but often I can see in their eye's some form of stress, with a touch of sadness.
Name: Mike Tillman
Location: Rutherford, NJ
Description:
The inspiration came from the film, Shape of Water.
Name: Lori Greenberg
Location: New York City
Description:
Us mermaids are constantly endangered by ocean plastic. I have straws in my crown, along with plastic 6-pack rings and even more straws stuck in my mask. I lost a bunch of good pearls in the process, too! I'm pictured here, coming out of the ocean, on my way to the Cyclone, to shake all this stuff off!
Name: Jan Livingston
Location: Rutherford, NJ
Description:
My mask is a Hippie Mermaid with flowers in her hair.
Name: Lori Greenberg
Location: New York City
Description:
I am a fashion obsessed mermaid who can't get enough seaside couture. But, I have to be careful in the sun, because I get burned easily. Quite a quandry for a mermaid! On the boardwalk, I found the perfect sequin beach cover up, which is a continuation of my mask. Oh, and Uncle Karl (Lagerfeld) left me his pearls in his will, and I am never leave the sea without them.
Name: Ashley Baedke
Location: Brooklyn, NY
Description:
This Mermaid will entrance sailors with her eyes and once they've gotten within her grasp she will reveal her true self and devour them with her ghastly teeth.
Name: Fanny Mac
Location: Los Angeles
Description:
Since March 30, I've made over 300 masks to donate to our local essential workers, friends, family, neighbors, and strangers. During that time, I had a surge of creativity and started coming up with "fun" animal masks that would cater to our inner kid, as well as actual kids! This dog mask has a tongue that sticks out and was my first fun mask.
Name: Fanny Mac
Location: Los Angeles
Description:
I created a dog face mask and of course, there had to be a cat too!
Name: Fanny Mac
Location: Los Angeles
Description:
Fun duck face mask with bill that sticks out!
Name: Fanny Mac
Location: Los Angeles
Description:
This is made in the style of the surgical "duck bill" face masks.
Name: Hope Carpentet
Location: Salem MA
Description:
Inspired by the B & B Carousell, Wild Horse can't drag my Face Mask off. Perfect for horsing around at the park or beach while practicing safe distance prancing.
Name: Suzie Sims-fletcher
Location: Astoria
Description:
SeaReena's MerMask
Mermaids generally only see scuba and snorkeling masks, so when SeaReena, a 2019 Coney Island Mermaid, realized she needed a mask, she needed to think and think.
Finally, She determined to craft a MerMask to match her MerCrown.
Made from bits and bobs of recycled and excess sparklies and dainties from SeaReena's treasure chest, her MerMask looks a like a magical sea-creature!
SeaReena hopes to show off her MerMask on the boardwalk very soon. After all, she is a landmer who oversees women and sailors (like the other friends of Yemaya, Ocean Goddess), and wants to set a good example.
Name: Karin Rabe
Location: Houston
Description:
Sometimes you need a little formal wear, ya know, like a tux for your face! If you have a ball, or gala, or even a wedding, now you can go in style with this mini tux complete with bow tie!
Name: Autumn Costner
Location: Williamsburg Brooklyn
Description:
My mask is a Mardi Gras/Mermaid Parade inspired Sea Creature with marabou feather lips, tiny bell trim on thrifted daisy printed cotton fabric. I used supplies I had laying around from Mermaid Parade costumes past. I made a complimentary head piece to wear with it.
I also made a second mask with rainbow sequin fabric.
Name: Karin Rabe
Location: Houston
Description:
In honor of one of my favorite mermaids, I've made a quilted plague mask with pink mermaid scales!
Name: The Rockaway Mermaid Brigade
Location: Rockaway Beach, NY
Description:
This is a gathering of the Rockaway Mermaid Brigade in digital landscape while socially distanced. A mix of hand-stitched/sketched/foam-sprayed masks, political statement masks, and digital masks for the nonconformists. We are grateful for this tradition to spark our creativity and look forward to partying in Coney Island again soon!!
Name: Joanna Tankel
Location: New York
Description:
Mythical Sea Creature - I had to include the variation because I used one of my son's old LEGO dragon wings for the dorsal (?) fin.
Name: Michelle Sullivan
Location: Florence, Massachusetts
Description:
Here we have a homemade Olson style mask, with rows and rows of hand sewn fringe. After sewing tons and tons of masks to donate During the time I would usually be making regalia for the Mermaid Parade, it was a joy to make one just for fun! I paired it with some pieces from one of my favorite Mermaid Parade costumes, because If you have a chance to dress up like Wonder Woman, you should always take it!
Name: Vanessa Sterbenz
Location: Woodside New York
Description:
Vision of Venus was inspired by Botticelli's The Birth of Venus. This time Venus doesn't need a man, just everything in the sea.
- wanted to make sure the file went through thanks
Name: Melanie Groves
Location: Minneapolis, mn
Description:
Your no bunny till some bunny loves you!
For Easter I delivered community made masks to vulnerable people in my neighborhood...as a giant Chicken! I mean, Bunny.
Name: Jen Green
Location: Bay Ridge, Brooklyn
Description:
Normally this time of year I would be busy creating my Mermaid Parade look, so I decided to raid my "mermaid craft supplies" box & create a classic mermaid look while I can't shop fabric/supplies stores right now. I even incorporated my great Aunt Honey's vintage rhinestone shell brooch & some Swarovski crystal starfish that were gifted to me.
Name: Melanie Groves
Location: Minneapolis, mn
Description:
I decided to do a Van Gogh for the COVID Art challenge . The mask my not be much for PPE, but I look damn sexy in a beard!
Name: Jen Green
Location: Bay Ridge, Brooklyn
Description:
Surreal Nathan's hot dog day dreams...looking forward to returning to Coney Island this summer for all the delicious eats!
Name: Melanie Groves
Location: Minneapolis, MN
Description:
Poems are the memes of history! So, I reimagined on of the best (E A Poe's The Raven) as a mask up meme/poem mashup. I also made the Crow, his plague mask, the skull and electric candles in the photo. The Reimagined Raven aka The Covid Crow
Name: Melanie Groves
Description:
How better to let the world know you are about to class the living daylights out of the joint than by plastering an $80 million painting to yo' mug. Or at least a lovely hand felted homage to one...Monet's Waterlilies
Name: Jenny Leigh Du Puis
Location: Ithaca, NY
Description:
"Magpie" is a sparkly disco ball explosion! Built as an incorporated plague doctor-style mask with hat, this piece is built out of neoprene, spandex, rhinestones, jewelry, mirrors, and a whole lotta love.
Name: Jenny Pavlakovich
Location: BROOKLYN
Description:
Family quarantining calls for matching manly mermaid masks complete with Fifi the parrot, pirate cats, and traditional tattoo images. Our subtle nod to Coney Island history and themes.
Name: Jen Green
Location: Bay Ridge, Brooklyn
Description:
Ice Cream makes everything better, even in these times! Can't wait to enjoy a cone from Williams Candy Shop & walk on the boardwalk this summer. Extra sprinkles please!
Name: Jenny Leigh Du Puis
Location: Ithaca, NY
Description:
"Revolution" was inspired by a costume I made for a charity fashion and circus event, and features studs, spikes, rhinestones, pearls, and fringe!
Name: Melanie Groves
Location: Minneapolis, MN
Description:
This mask might not be as creative as most. But it is incredibly special...A few weeks ago elderly neighbor came up to me with a very special request from her husband. She had a small bundle of fabric in her hands. It was the silk parachute that his father had used during WWII. He had been a surgeon in the army and saved countless lives in service to our country. They have kept it as a keepsake and memento all these years as a way to remember him and his service. They decided that there was no more fitting tribute than to use that treasured material to make masks to help save peoples. "That's what he would have wanted." I was told. Our group the NE Minneapolis Mask Makers is using this amazing gift to make masks for some of our local veterans in honor of their service.
(The lining and the white star on the front of this mask are silk from this WWII parachute.)
Name: Jenny Leigh Du Puis
Location: Ithaca, NY
Description:
"Confluence, Revisited" was made for the Costume Professionals for Wage Equity's Masquer-Aid: Entertainment Relief, an auction of art masks to benefit The Actors Fund. I wanted to participate in the art auction because my husband and I are entertainment professionals, and the majority of our friends have been laid off with shows closing due to COVID-19. As a result, many in our social circles are facing financial hardship and rely on resources such as The Actors Fund. Using my background as a costume designer, this mask was made using metallic brocade and embroidered organza, and was hand-beaded over the course of a week. Its design is inspired by a Ringmaster's coat I made and beaded during my graduate studies.
Name: Melanie Groves
Location: Minneapolis, MN
Description:
I am lucky enough to be the communication/logistics hub for the amazing NE Minneapolis Mask Makers. We are a group of neighbours, sewing masks to donate to people in need. Our group started with the idea that we would like to prioritise our local community and especially the underserved people in our neighbourhoods. People who are vulnerable because of age, illness, or high-risk essential jobs (healthcare, social services, food supply- grocery store, food transportation, etc), homeless shelters and out reach, etc. We've hand (well, not hand, we do safe no contact style) delivered thousands of masks made with love at no cost to our community. We are part of a larger grassroots mutual aid network called the Mask Movement that reaches all over the Twin Cities greater metro area and beyond. we all share a common vision to serve the underserved and to take care of our local communities. I'm so proud to work with all of these wonderful people selflessly giving their time and resources. It fills me with so much hope. The essence of fear is feeling helpless and it's easy to feel afraid with all the uncertainty in the world today and discouraged by people's seeming indifference. I find that helping others is a way to feel less helpless and more hopeful. I see, through the generosity of this community, how in difficulty and crisis the better angels of our nature can come shining through. We are making a difference one mask at a time!
Name: Avalon McLaughlin
Location: Lakewood, OH
Description:
Kiddo sacrificed the eyes from one of her stuffies to help make this fishy entry. I hope it doesn't make my breath too fishy!
Name: Beatriz A
Location: Brooklyn
Description:
I am part of the yearly Brooklyn Meh-maids group, which consists of me and a poor sailor I usually find roaming the streets. This year, since I am social distancing, I decided to put on a mask and sing on the Brooklyn Navy Yard, since that would improve my chances of catching a hipster sailor with whom to quarantine. Because I am a super super duper responsible meh-maid, I created my own magical mask that prevents others from catching the sea version of Covid-19. Using a rich tapestry filled with narwhals, I painstakingly hand made it by adhering pure gold shells from the lost treasures of Atlantis. It also features a bendable nose wire (because this meh-maid is not only super cool, but also concerned about viruses escaping when she breathes), making this the perfect mask to catch an unsuspecting sailor with a nice apartment. After seeing my mask, he promised an unlimited supply of sea scallops and red shrimp during the quarantine. This is getting expensive. I should win so I can buy my own shrimp and scallops. Thank you for your consideration!
Name: Lane McLaughlin
Location: Lakewood, OH
Description:
I bought the crabby hat for the parade for my girl. She was so disappointed when we had to cancel our trip that she asked for a crabby mask to match, now she wears it everywhere.
Name: Javier Peinado
Location: Brooklyn
Description:
I am part of the yearly Brooklyn Meh-maids ensemble along with with my beautiful meh-maid wife. I am the drunken sailor she takes every year to the Mermaid Parade. Since I'm on a budget (I have to feed my meh-maid from time to time), I took a pillowcase in Spectrum-blue and spent 3 hours of my life trying to assemble something New Yorker to NY1's glory. I used the official NY1 pin and printed the Empire State Building, the Chrysler, the Unisphere, and the Coney Island face to show my admiration to the 5 boroughs. Sure, the results are not great, but I almost bled myself to death because my sewing skills are non-existent. I need to win to show my meh-maid wife that I'm not completely useless. Even if it's not true. Please keep my marriage alive. I'm counting on you.
Name: Suzie Sims-fletcher
Location: Astoria
Description:
Monumental
Just what do the seven spikes of Lady Liberty's crown stand for? The seven seas or the seven continents or just seven rays of sun? Who knows? But we do know that when we see them we think of the symbol of hope, freedom, and democracy.
We think of New York City. We think of America.
Monumental is a simple mask of the pleated envelope style, such as were made by the hundreds, given to the first line responders. In addition, this fabric was donated by Material for the Arts. The crown pivots, free from the mask below, to fit the unique size and shape of the wearer.
Monumental serves as a reminder of the symbol of diversity and acceptance and puts it on (in!) your face.
Name: LeeAnn Fletcher
Location: Brooklyn, NY
Description:
For the busy sea loving gal who wants to make a great first impression but also has errands to run. This mask goes from full tentacle splendor to an everyday mask (plus dog toy) in a moment.
Name: Melanie Groves
Description:
This is the Gorgon, Euryale. She's kind of a mermaid ...if mermaids were righteous, bad ass, immortal, killing machine daughters of some sea gods! Hell hath no fury... Hell, Yeah!
Name: Debra Scotti
Location: New York City
Description:
"Beauty of the *C*"
My mask & headpiece represent the "Beauty of the *C*" - despite Covid robbing us of festive events like the Mermaid Parade this year, creative expression and making beauty can still be channeled & create joy even in the worst of times!
The Coney Island Mermaid Parade is an event that is near & dear to my heart - I first attended in 1996, for the past 12 years attended in costume, and have marched in the parade in full Mermaid regalia since 2013! In 2018 a float I helped create ("Mermaid Carousel") won 1st place in the category of "Best Human/Man Powered Push Cart". My headpiece is an expression of my love for the Mermaid – it's tail is surrounded by a heart created by octopus tentacles (finger puppet ones!), along with a variety of beautiful shells & starfish. My mask incorporates seashells, fish, and algae spraypainted gold, a blue crab to represent the uniqueness of each person's creativity, the cutest baby octopus you've ever seen, and handlebar mustaches made from octopus tentacles in an effort to inject humor into my piece. I hope you like it!
Name: Elizabeth Mitchell
Location: Anchorage, Alaska
Description:
Title: Gold Bird, Hand sewn using cotton muslin and then painted gold.
Name: Virmarie Ruiz
Location: Coney island
Description:
Found this beautiful fabric that celebrates Mexican culture. I loved the design. I know the masks in the market are very generic and boring. I figured this would be fun and entertaining!
Name: Nina Urban
Location: Brooklyn, NY
Description:
Kali, the divine protector. Sticking the tongue out at the virus.
Name: Katie Luscombe
Location: Brooklyn, New York
Description:
Inspired by the powerful and mysterious forces that cause the ebbs and flows of nature. She is prepared for the rising tide, knowing it will soon fall.
Name: Shirlette Thompson
Location: Brooklyn, New York
Description:
I'm totally obsessed with the mermaid parade so in the spirit of that, I decided to make a mask to represent that and my favorite character Sebastian from the little mermaid!
Advisory
Coney Island USA has been closely monitoring the status of the current coronavirus outbreak and considers the safety of our supporters, patrons, employees and cast members of the utmost importance...read more
