Disguise, fetish, or both?

I’ve recently picked up phenomenon I knew little about, masks.  There seems to be a real community of people out there that spend a lot of time and money on masks to give themselves animal or just larger than life qualities.  For example, the YouTube channel for NorthFur FX and Mascots.

I get that this is a legitimate special effects company, but I do wonder where people are using these masks.  Are you filming a movie, or just getting ready for a not so casual night out on the town? Are there bars or clubs out there for mask enthusiasts?  How can you maneuver a martini glass around a beak like that?

But all masks are not based on animals.  There are also people who wear human masks.  This performer goes by the name “Julie Masking”:

From what I’ve read, Julie is a cabaret performer, was a guest on Geraldo Rivera’s old show and has appeared in no less than two of my nightmares since I discovered this video (I am easily frightened).  Is this a career for Julie, or just a hobby?  Has QVC approached her to host a jewelry show yet?

Anyway, I have no judgement…just lots of questions.  If you’re a mask enthusiast, hit me up!  I’ll buy the first round!

(image: http://www.northfur.ca/)