Opening Reception for Coconut Mask Expo by Bebe Bambu

The Museum is proud to invite you to the opening reception of our new exhibit in the Upper Gallery, “Coconut Mask Expo by Bebe Bambu” on Sunday, June 29th from 2 PM – 5 PM! ✨

Gabriel Rosario Mongil aka Bebe Bambu pays tribute to Puerto Rican folklore with his collection of Vejigantes.

This emblematic character in Puerto Rican history holds a fascinating story and context that traces its origin to the times of colonization.

Adorned with a colorful mask, the Vejigante is a beautiful character portrayed in the carnival celebrations of Santiago Apóstol Matamoros.

Through this exhibit, Bebe Bambu is reimagining the Vejigante in a modern context, inspired by the Hip Hop movement and Puerto Rican culture, to present the Vejigante as a hero and symbol of Indigenous and African ancestry.

Bebe Bambu will be conducting a Vejigante mask-making workshop series as part of the exhibit.

The workshops will be held on 3 consecutive Sundays: July 13, 20, and 27 from 1 PM – 3 PM at the Museum. Please note that participants must commit to the 3 workshops. Here is the registration link: https://secure.givelively.org/event/hoboken-historical-museum-inc/vejigante-mask-making-workshop-series

We cannot wait for our community to see this exhibit! 🇵🇷