Inspiring Future Generations
Bringing Greek Folk Traditions to Life!
People who know me well know that when I’m fully immersed in an art project, I tend to forget everything else—especially taking pictures!
That’s exactly what happened during the incredible workshop I ran last year at the Hellenic School in Rye, New York. The fact that I only snapped one photo (seen above) tells you just how much I enjoyed the experience and how deeply engaged the children were in the creative process.
What’s Greek Carnival all about?
This workshop was all about introducing the children to the vibrant traditions of Greek Carnival, a lively three-week celebration marking the transition from winter to spring.
We explored the meaning behind this festive season and focused on one of its most fascinating customs, Boules and Genitsaroi, a tradition from Naousa in Northern Greece.
The children were captivated as we talked about the history of the masks used during this custom and the significance behind their striking designs.
Time to Get Creative!
Then, the fun truly began! Each child created their own version of the Genitsaros (γενίτσαρος) or Boula (μπούλα) mask using my designs of the masks.
They carefully painted the defining features - eyes, eyebrows, and mouth - and then added decorative elements like little flowers for the Boula mask or a bold paper mustache for the Genitsaros. The room was filled with the excitement of hands-on creativity!
A Standout Moment
One particular moment stood out to me. A little girl (seen in the image above) became completely immersed in her mask, carefully placing flowers all around it. She was so focused, so intent on making it beautiful, that she ended up creating something strikingly authentic - just like the real Boula mask seen in Naousa’s Carnival celebrations that is decorated with flowers all around the face (as seen in the image).
Seeing her and the rest of the children, so inspired by this tradition was a powerful reminder of why I love sharing and teaching Greek folk art and traditions.
Image from the custom of Boules and Genitsaroi from Naousa, Greece
Why it Matters?
Workshops like this one are what make my work so fulfilling. Watching children engage with history and culture through hands-on creation is a joy, and I can’t wait to bring more of these experiences to life.
If you’re curious about the traditions we explored, I encourage you to look up the incredible custom of the Genitsaroi and Boules—because when art and heritage come together, the results are always extraordinary...
Genitsaros (γενίτσαρος) mask design by Ariadne Kritonos
Boula (μπούλα) mask design by Ariadne Kritonos
