In the heart of Shkoder, Albania, a city celebrated for tis rich heritage in art and craftsmanship, lies an unexpected treasure – Vencie Art, a mask studio that has captivated the world with its masterful creations of traditional Venetian masks. These masks, with their beguiling charm, have become synonymous with the opulence and mystery of Venice’s Carnival, masquerade balls, and theatrical productions. Yet, what many may not know is that a significant portion of these iconic masks are crafted not in Italy, but in this very Albanian city, by artisans who treat each piece as a unique work of art.
A Journey from Italy to Albania: The Birth of Venice Art. The story of Venice Art begins not in Albani, but in Italy, where Edmond Angoni, the founder and visionary behind the mask – makings studio, first encountered the world of Venetian masks. Angoni, who was born in Shkoder, developed a passion for art, literature, and sculpture during his youth, despite the oppressive Communist regime that kept Albania isolated from the rest of the world. His love for the arts became a window into a world he longed to explore.
In 1991, at the age of 35, Angoni immigrated to Italy, where he spend six years living in Padua and Venice. During this time, he worked a series of simple jobs, but it was his exposure to master mask makers in Venice that reignited his artistic instincts. He immersed himself in the craft, learning the intricate techniques of mask – making from some of the best artisans in the world.
When Angoni returned to Albania in 1997, he brought with him the skills and knowledge he had acquired in Italy. He converted a former tomato processing plant in Shkoder into a mask factory and showroom, thus establishing Venice Art. Initially, there was skepticism about the viability of producing Venetian masks in Albania, a country not traditionally associated with this art form. However, Angoni’s dedication to quality and authenticity quickly silenced the doubters.
Craftsmanship as Art: The Unique Process of Mask-Making. At Venice Art, mask-making is treated as a true art form. Unlike the mass-produced, plastic masks that flood the market, the masks crafted by Angoni and his team are unique, meticulously crafted pieces that embody the spirit of Venetian tradition. The studio produces approximately 20,000 masks annually, with each one requiring the skilled hands of 10 to 12 artisans to complete. In addition to these, Venice Art creates 10 one-of-a-kind masks each year thar are not reproduced or altered, making them true collector’s items.
The process of creating a Venetian mask at Venice Art is both time-consuming and labor-intensive. It begins with the hand-sculpting of a clay mold, followed by the application of layers of papier – mâché. Once the basic form is complete, the surface is smoothed, bleached, and painted in vivid colors. The final step involves the embellishment of the mask with a variety of materials, including precious metals, gems, feathers, beads, fur, leather, lace or crystals. Depending on the size and complexity of the design, it can take anywhere from one day to three weeks to complete a single mask.
For Angoni, the creation of each mask is not just about aesthetics; it’s about preserving a tradition and conveying a story. This dedication to authenticity is evident in the studio’s faithful recreation of historical masks, such as the “Plague Doctor” and the characters from the Commedia dell’Arte. These masks, originally used in 14th-century Venice and later in theatrical performances, are brought back to life with the same attention to detail and respect for tradition that characterized the originals.
From Shkoder to the World: Venice Art’s Global Reach. Despite its location in Albania, Venice Art has gained international acclaim for its high-quality, authentic Venetian masks. The studio’s creations are shipped to luxury shops and galleries around the world, where they are sold as art pieces rather than mere accessories. The masks have also found their way into the world of theater and films, most notably in Stanley Kubrick’s Eyes Wide Shut, where they added an extra layer of mystique to the film’s already enigmatic atmosphere.
In Venice, where the tradition of mask-making in deeply rooted, Angoni’s masks have been embraced with open arms. Vencie Art now operates seven shops in Venice itself, as well as one in Las Vegas, further solidifying its reputation as a leading producer of authentic Venetian masks. This success is a testament to Angoni’s commitment to quality and his belief that true artistry cannot be compromised.
The Philosophy Behind the Mask: A Reflection on Identity and Truth. One of the most intriguing aspects of Venetian masks is their ability to transform the wearer, allowing them to step into another identity or conceal their true self. This concept has fascinated Angoni, who often reflects on the philosophical implications of mask-wearing. He quotes Oscar Wilde, who wrote in The Picture of Dorian Gray, “Man is least himself when he talks in his own person. Give him a mask, and he will tell you the truth”. For Angoni, masks offer a paradoxical blend of concealment and revelation, providing a sense of freedom that is both liberating and powerful.
Historically, masks played a crucial role in Venetian society, particularly among the wealthy. They allowed individuals to mingle with others without the constraints of social status or reputation, enabling them to engage in activities that were otherwise frowned upon or illegal. Today, while the practical necessity of masks has diminished, their symbolic power remains. They continue to be used in celebrations and performances around the world, where they evoke the same sense of mystery and allure that they did centuries ago.
Preserving a Tradition for Future Generations. As Angoni approaches his mid-60s, the question of how to preserve the tradition of mask-making for future generations weighs heavily on his mind. While his son has chosen a different path, Angoni is determined to ensure that Venice Art’s legacy endures. “This is an art, not an industry”, he says, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the artisanal nature of craft. He expressed concern that without support, the tradition could be relegated to history, with the mask ending up as museum pieces rather than living art forms.
To this end, Angoni advocated for local policies that would support the mask factory, recognizing its significance as one of the most popular tourist attractions in Shkoder and all of Albania. Each year, from April to September, Venice Art welcomes 50 to 100 tourists daily, many of whom arrive on bus tours to witness the artistry firsthand. The masks, ranging in price from 20 euros for smaller designs to 3,000 euros or more for the most elaborate creations, serve as both souvenirs and symbols of a rich cultural heritage.
A Lasting Legacy: Venice Art’s Contribution to Shkoder and Beyond. In a world where mass production often take precedence over craftsmanship, Venice Art stands as a beacon of tradition and artistry. The studio’s masks are not just objects of beauty; they are embodiments of history, culture, and the human spirit. Through his work, Angoni has not only preserved a centuries-old tradition but has also elevated it, bringing it to new audiences and ensuring its relevance in the modern world.
For the city of Shkoder, Venice Art represents a unique blend of local craftsmanship and global appeal. It is a testament to the city’s artistic heritage and its ability to produce works of art that resonate far beyond its borders. As Venice Art continues to create masks that captivate and inspire, it also continues to write its own chapter in the rich history of Venetian mask-making – a chapter that, thanks to Angoni’s vision and dedication, will be remembered for generations to come.
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