Rachel Coffman (right) dons the mask that sparked her interest in the annual Carnaval celebrations at the Clay Center. She's joined by Jessica Boyle and Christen Simpson.

A masked man chats with a lady in black at a previous Carnaval.

Whether they're colorful and elaborately feathered or two-toned in a geometric pattern, masks add an element of festive mystery to Carnaval guests' appearance.