Art and gender review - Book Report/Review Example

Art and Gender Book Review Within the communities of Basile and Tee Mamou, Mardi Gras runs have, for long, been performedby men but this tradition has changed since late in the 20th century. Although some other communities allow women’s involvement in these performances, most others still do not allow their involvement. These celebrations are characterized by disguises where the performers either males or females disguise themselves. The influence that women have had on these celebrations is pervasive as they design as well as sew their own costumes and those of their husbands and sons.

While this was a male role, women are now allowed to make their own masks and even those of their spouses. The most original disguise for performing Mardi Gras is a wire screen mask. The disguises used by men and women in these two communities are similar and often interchangeable. However, there are some differences in how individuals in these communities disguise themselves. While the Basile community prefers a screen mask and a fringed suit, the Tee Mamou prefers more Halloween masks. Cross-dressing is a common feature especially in the Tee Mamou community.

At times, men dress like women. This is not often interpreted as playing the roles of women but playing with the roles of women, as it is usually clear for the audience to notice that in spite of the clothing, they are male participants. Through the consuming, the female population intends to accentuate the aspect of femininity. At some instances, they may dress as queens or old women. At other times, they may disguise themselves as younger individuals where this is known as inverting age.