Mask making Ambalangoda in the south, is the best known district for masks. Using very light woods and a lot of relief work and modeling, demonic representations and characters from myths and legends are brought to life. Ceremonial devildancer masks are traditionally carved by the dancer himself and is carved according to strict specifications and carefully stained. The Kolam masks, with articulated jaws, rolling eyes and thick bushy beards are also turned out by master craftsmen. Today however, for the tourist industry, most masks are produced using enamel paints and range from intricate works of art to gaudy designs. BACK