For some, masks are used just for fun when dressing up in costumes, but for art collectors Patricia and Carmine De Vivi of New Mexico, masks take on a different dimension. They aren't only beautiful pieces of artwork, but a representation of a culture's history -- and in their case, an invaluable treasure for those of Mexican descent who want to cherish and preserve their heritage. 

That's why the couple decided to selflessly donate their collection of over 300 indigenous masks, worth hundreds of thousands of dollars, to the Mexic-Arte Museum in Austin in 2013, according to Latina Lista,  

Starting in the 1950s, the De Vivis "journeyed deep into Mexico visiting one indigenous village after another. As a souvenir of each visit, the artist couple would bring home a mask unique to the dances and rituals of that village."  

The permanent collection, entitled "Masked: Changing Identities," showcases the De Vivis massive collection and impressive contribution that encompasses Mexican culture and history. "Each selected mask's vibrant colors and designs reflect Mexican traditions of indigenous craftsmanship, mythic narratives, and dance rituals."

"Masked deconstructs the concept of the 'mask' as transformative tool for disguise, performance, and entertainment in Mexican visual culture. The selected folkloric masks from Western Mexico including the states of Guerrero and Michoacán range from authentic wood, leather and metal masks used ceremonially, sold commercially, and created as limited edition art objects," according to the Mexic-Arte Museum's offcial website.

Besides, these rich cultural component, the symbolism and power behind the masks has always been intriguing to the De Vivis.

"Masks that are reproductions of the human form, the minute you put a mask on, you act like something else, you interpret the situation differently, that's probably one of the most important things to know about masks -- a mask is an interpretation of your soul and the way you think, the way you perform and the way you respond," reiterated artist and art aficionado, Carmine De Vivi.

Last year, "Masked: Changing Identities" had its inauguration at a festive opening reception complete with a ritual dance. In the featured video (below) of the opening reception, Carmine De Vivi delves into why he was drawn to indigenous Mexican face masks and why he began collecting them, as well as their importance and their significance to the people he met.