Lyudmil Yordanov

Mask maker

The face of Bulgarian ritual traditions

Lyudmil is a third-generation traditional Bulgarian Kukeri mask craftsman
He founded his workshop to bring greater visibility to traditional mask making
The horns he uses come from domestic species

Lyudmil Yordanov was born and raised in a family of artisans who have been producing carnival masks for more than 50 years. After graduating as a teacher he left his home country, pursuing the American dream. “There was always something missing and pulling me back to my roots in Bulgaria," Lyudmil states. Guided by this inner voice, he returned home and founded his own workshop, Yordanovi ART, for entirely handmade, one-of-a-kind masks. Since then, he has been diligently working towards preserving and promoting the ancient ritual of Kukeri, celebrated across the country in early winter. The Kukeri masks and costumes represent mythical creatures that chase away evil spirits and invoke health and fertility for people, animals, and agriculture. Lyudmil’s masks depict a scary character, made entirely of natural materials such as hand-carved wood, sheepskin, leathers, and horns from least-concern species. His signature style, which involves using different types of wood to form the face, results in highly unique pieces that have gained international awareness in artistic circles in recent years.

Interview

What does your creative process look like?: My Kukeri masks are entirely handmade using various wood carving techniques. I use pine or red willow wood for the construction, as these materials are light and soft. The wooden base is then covered with treated sheepskin. Finally, I attach the fearsome horns from domesticated, least-concern species.
What is the most challenging and the most rewarding part of your craft?: In the creative process, there are two key moments that bring me the greatest joy. The first one is when I enter my workshop, filled with the scents of wood and leather on a cold winter's day. The second joyful moment is when I get positive feedback from people who witness my work at the numerous festivals and exhibitions my community and I participate in.
Could your craft be considered in danger?: Unfortunately our craft could be considered as highly endangered as most of the craftspeople are getting old, and there are hardly no newcomers being trained. In my family, the tradition of mask making has been passed down for three generations, and I believe it will continue long after me.
How is your craft connected to the country you come from?: The creation of Kukeri masks is an ancient craft intertwined with some of Bulgaria's oldest rituals and traditions. This custom dates back thousands of years, making its preservation immensely important to Bulgarian people and culture. The art of making Kukeri masks is a source of passion, pride, and recognition.

Lyudmil Yordanov is a master artisan: he began his career in 2007 and he started teaching in 2018