Sonja
CoM: CIAO! TODAY WE’RE INTERVIEWING CARNEVALE COSTUME DESIGNER, SONJA MASCHEK.
Photo by Nadine Wittmann
CoM: SONJA, HOW DID YOU FIRST LEARN ABOUT CARNEVALE?
SM: A friend told me many years ago. Then, in 2020, I wanted to visit Venice, Italy just to watch Carnevale. That November my friend told me she had ordered a dress. I was confused about what dress she was talking about. And she said, “If we are there for Carnevale, I want to dress up!” So, I started thinking and planning. We both ended up in Piazza San Marco wearing beautiful costumes and handcrafted masks.
Photo by Sophia Spurgin
CoM: WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT CARNEVALE?
SM: Experiencing the magic of Venice from behind a mask. When I put on my costume and my mask the real-life Sonja disappears and an elegant and impressive masked personae emerges. And to be honest: who doesn't like to be admired for the costume you designed and made all by yourself?
Photo by Barak Shacked
COM: HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE CARNEVALE TO SOMEONE WHO HAS NEVER BEEN?
SM: It's days full of magical encounters in the absolutely beautiful calli and piazze of Venice!
Photo by Marco Zavalloni
COM: WHAT SORT OF THINGS DO YOU DESIGN?
SM: I create my own costumes including mask, headdress and whatever accessories. I always add a very personal touch by tatting various lace-designs for my costume
COM: ARE YOU WORKING ON ANYTHING NOW?
SM: I'm currently working on a new costume that will be presented in 2027.
Photo by Scott Spagnoli