Mask in the Velvet Carnival Parade
| Code | Completion | Credits | Range | Language of instruction | Semester |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 202MSP | credit | 1 | 8 workshop hours (45 min) of instruction per semester, 19 to 24 hours of self-study | English, Czech | winter |
Subject guarantor
Olga Věra CIESLAROVÁ
Name of lecturer(s)
Olga Věra CIESLAROVÁ, Filip NOVÁK
Department
The subject provides Department of Authorial Creativity and Pedagogy
Contents
Course content:
This practical seminar offers students an opportunity to take part in the 15th Velvet Carnival, an allegorical parade held in central Prague each year on 17 November. It addresses current social issues through visual imagery, humour, irony and satire (www.sametoveposviceni.cz).
During two practical workshops, students will design and make their own mask, become familiar with basic principles of its visual and symbolic effect, and then actively participate in the Velvet Carnival parade wearing the mask. The seminar is intended for students who want practical experience of creative work and performance in public space without completing the full process of theme development, dramaturgy and preparation of an independent clique.
Course organisation:
- First workshop in the second half of October 2026: introduction to the Velvet Carnival, work with symbolic imagery, mask design and the beginning of production.
- Second workshop: completion of the mask, preparation for wearing it and a basic introduction to the performative situation of the parade.
- Participation in the Velvet Carnival parade in central Prague on 17 November 2026.
- Submission of a short written reflection after the parade.
The exact dates and location of both workshops will be specified later. Depending on the composition of the group, the seminar may be conducted in Czech and/or English; knowledge of English is not a prerequisite.
Learning outcomes
After completing the seminar, the student will be able to:
- design and make a simple mask intended for a parade in public space;
- understand the basic relationship between a mask’s visual form, its symbolic meaning and its effect on spectators;
- draw on practical experience of wearing a mask and taking part in a collective performance in public space;
- briefly reflect on their own creative process, experience of the parade and the way the mask worked in a specific situation.
Prerequisites and other requirements
The seminar is open to students from all disciplines and faculties. Previous experience in visual art, theatre or performance is not required. Students must attend both mask-making workshops, take an active part in the workshop process and participate in the parade on 17 November 2026.
Literature
Required: All participants must watch the short video lecture by Assoc. Prof. Radek Chlup, “Satire vs. Caricature in the Velvet Carnival”, which introduces the use of symbolic imagery in the Velvet Carnival: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tutzoVf4vpM
Evaluation methods and criteria
Students earn one credit for:
- active participation in both workshops focused on designing and making their own mask;
- completion of a mask suitable for use in the parade;
- active participation in the Velvet Carnival parade on 17 November 2026;
- timely submission of a short written reflection on their creative and performative experience.
The required length and submission method for the reflection will be explained at the first workshop.
Contact: olga@sametoveposviceni.cz
Further information
This course is an elective for all AMU students
Schedule for winter semester 2026/2027:
The schedule has not yet been prepared
Schedule for summer semester 2026/2027:
The schedule has not yet been prepared
The subject is a part of the following study plans
- Authorial Acting in English (B.A.) (Elective subjects)
- Authorial Acting (M.A.) (Elective subjects)
- Authorial Acting (M.A.) (Elective subjects)
- Authorial Acting (M.A.) (Elective subjects)
- Authorial Acting (B.A.) (Elective subjects)