Mardi Gras Maskerade at Evoke: Celebrating Young Artists
- Melissa Mitchell
- Feb 11
- 5 min read
February 12, 2026
If you remember last year’s Mardi Gras Maskerade, you know the kind of energy—the excitement, the pride, and the way the young artists stood just a little taller beside their work. It was one of those moments that lingered—long after the masks came down and the glitter had finally settled.(Well… mostly settled. We all know glitter has a way of sticking around.)
This year, we’re thrilled to bring that feeling back once again with our Second Annual Mardi Gras Maskerade, proudly hosted and sponsored by Evoke in collaboration with the talented students of Seashore Learning Academy and Seashore Middle Academy.
A Tradition That Begins With Creativity
Mardi Gras masks have long been part of the tradition—originally worn to blur social lines and invite everyone to take part in the celebration. Today, they remain symbols of celebration, self-expression, and storytelling—allowing the wearer to step into a moment of imagination and tradition all at once. This year, our Mardi Gras Maskerade continues that legacy through the hands of young artists who have spent weeks designing, painting, and building masks that are as individual as they are expressive.
Each student approaches their mask differently. Some focus on intricate details and careful patterns, while others embrace bold color, texture, and movement. Feathers, paint, beads, and layered materials come together in ways that feel joyful, thoughtful, and unmistakably personal.
These masks aren’t just decorative—they’re reflections of curiosity, confidence, and creative voice taking shape.
L to R: Aven Wolfmueller 4th grade, Briones and Patrick Moxey 3rd grade, Briones
More Than an Art Show
What makes this event especially meaningful is not just the finished work, but the process behind it. Creating these masks encourages students to take creative risks, solve problems, and trust their instincts. It’s the kind of hands-on experience that builds confidence—one decision, one brushstroke, one idea at a time.
For many of these students, this is their first time having artwork displayed in a gallery setting. Seeing their creations hung, lit, and celebrated reinforces an important message: their creativity matters, and their voices deserve to be seen.
The Maskerade is more than a gallery show—it’s a celebration of young artists and the community that surrounds them.
This year’s Maskerade will once again be a judged event, with awards for first, second, and third place.
This year, the prize bundles are being generously sponsored by local businesses who believe in supporting creativity from the ground up—including Evoke (People's Choice Award), Cabana Pantry , Texas Sealife Center, and Karissa Herman, K Realty. Their involvement adds another layer of encouragement for these young artists and underscores the value our community places on the arts.
That collaboration—between schools, local businesses, and the gallery—is at the heart of what makes this event so special.
From the Gallery to the Parade
Some of these very masks won’t just hang in the gallery for the show—they’ll head out into the sunshine, proudly worn by their creators at the Barefoot Mardi Gras parade on February 28, carrying that same spirit of imagination straight into the heart of the Island’s celebration.
That’s one of my favorite parts—watching art move beyond the space where it was created and into the life of the community.
L to R: Roselynn Breunig—8th Grade, Kneupper and Teagan Hearn, Adaline Rhett, and Harper Park—5th Grade, Kneupper
The Maskerade Exhibit will be on display February 19–23 at Evoke, and we invite you to stop in, take your time, and really look. Vote for your favorites. Encourage these young artists. Let them know their work made you smile.
Because when we support creativity early—when we make space for imagination, expression, and pride—we’re doing more than hosting an event. We’re nurturing the next generation of artists, thinkers, and makers.
And that, too, is part of the art of island life.
The Art of Island Life will return next week with more stories and coastal reflections. Have a story to share or a cause close to your heart? I’d love to hear from you at contact@melissamitchellart.com
Reminder of upcoming event this Friday:
💕Galentine’s at Evoke—Everything You Need to Know💕
Register online and grab your girlfriends and join us for a joyful afternoon of creativity, connection, and a little extra sparkle at Galentine’s at Evoke—a Valentine-inspired celebration designed for fun, friendship, and feeling pampered.
✨ What to Expect
All guests will enjoy:
• A festive Galentine’s atmosphere inside Evoke Studio & Gifts
• After-hours shopping featuring a curated selection of artful Valentine giftables, local makers, and elevated treats from specialty brands—including gourmet shortbread cookies in flavors like lavender and matcha, plus cinnamon candied pecans that are truly irresistible.
• Sweet treats, special surprises, and plenty of photo-worthy moments
💝 Tickets & RSVP are Limited
Space is limited for both RSVP and ticket holders, and spots are expected to fill quickly.
Get on the list here: https://www.evokebymelissa.com/event-list
General Admission is free, but RSVP is required due to limited space.
RSVP for general admission does not include access to Makers Group sessions. General admission RSVP includes event entry only. Makers Group sessions are reserved for registered participants.
🥂 Upgrade Experience: The Bubbles Pass
Want the full Galentine’s experience? Our Bubbles Pass includes everything in General Admission—plus the extras that make the day feel truly special:
Your Bubbles Pass includes:
🎫 Event Entry (Admission Included)
🥂 Bottomless mimosas (🩷The heart sticker on your glass signals refill eligibility.)
💖 1 Galentine Bingo Card
🎟️ A ticket for a chance to win a Luxury Self-Care Bundle ($250 value!)
🎨 Interactive Makers Group Sessions: Valentine Cards, Miniature Paintings, and Jewelry Making Stations
🎁 A pre-packaged swag bag with a glass and a few extra goodies
Bubbles Pass tickets are $15 and can be purchased directly from our official website:
Be sure to show your ticket when you arrive to get your hand stamped and receive all of the perks!
Want a Bonus Drawing Ticket?
Wear PINK to earn an extra entry ticket for our luxury giveaway!
⚠️Note: Tickets will only be available through the official Evoke website. Anyone claiming to sell tickets elsewhere is not legitimate and should be considered a scam.
🎟️ Ticket Policy
All ticket sales are final. Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. If Evoke Studio & Gifts must cancel the event, guests will receive a full refund or store credit.
📍 Location: Evoke Studio & Gifts (Compass Plaza, Padre Island)
📅 Date: February 13th
🕒 Time: 5pm-7pm
Come celebrate friendship, creativity, and a little Galentine’s joy—Evoke style. 💕
Evoke Studio & Gifts
14646 Compass Street, Suite 10
The Island—Corpus Christi, Texas 78418
Hours: Tuesday-Thursday: 11a-4p, Friday & Saturday: 12p-4p, Closed Sunday & Monday
After-hours private shopping appointments may be arranged upon request, based on schedule availability.
As a retired teacher ….It warms my heart and am proud to see such creative programs, activities, and traditional celebrations on our Island of the Lord. 🙏Padre Island is a gulf coast magical mystical place to live and as a vacation destination…. Keep up the great work …so excited to attend the activities and celebrate Easter’ 🐣 here on the Island …..Mardi Gras is a great way to celebrate the joy of resurrection🙏 A great time for renewal, new opportunities, and fresh starts for all every Spring 🍀