A ‘formidable mask maker’ of the United States, and a fixture of Mardi Gras

Richard Thompson was inspired by a variety of unexpected sources, including ancient cultures and even horror sci fi.

Naturally, many of his ready-to-wear designs were takes on Venetian mask making, as well as traditional commedia del arte, including the long-nosed Pantalone character and the Harlequin / Arlequino archetype.

However, his influences also included masking and leather working traditions around the world, including Northwest Coast Native American, the colorful Banda masks of the Baga and Nalu peoples of Guinea, West Africa, the intricacies of Japanese samurai armor, the myths of ancient Mexico, Central America, Rome, and beyond.

He also cited sci fi horror artist H.R. Giger for some of his dark and twisted modern designs, which included sinewy carvings and, sometimes, a marriage of the biological and futuristic, industrial elements.

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