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#Videocrux - It's all about masks at Rio carnival It's all about masks at Rio carnival
What is the Rio carnival without a mask? It’s that time of year when these colorful disguises are selling like hot-cakes. We get a behind the scenes look at how the essential accessories are made.
Political leaders masked in Rio
Bin Laden, George Bush, Barack Obama - just to name a few. Political personalities are the specialty of the Condal shop, one of the oldest mask makers in Rio. While masks are sold mostly during carnival season, they also have a place in other events.
500,000 masks being prepared every year
Some 20 crafstmen work at this shop, and they produce around 500,000 masks each year. First a mold is made. Then each plastic or latex mask is painted. The shop, which features a selection of more than 2,000 masks, was established 52 years ago by Catalan artist Armando Valles, Olga Gilbert's husband. He passed away in 2008.
Mask owners hope good business from WC
Unlike last year, the Obama mask has fallen from the top-sellers list. This year’s carnival was dominated by animal masks which sold like hotcakes. Now that carnival is over, mask makers are pinning sales hopes on other major events. The upcoming World Cup could bring some good business, especially if Brazil wins.

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