Make your very own Dan Dare and Mekon masks by following the step by step instructions below.

Local illustrator Frank Hampson created ‘Dan Dare, Pilot of the Future’ in 1950 for the Eagle comic. In a short time the story became phenomenally popular, with a million children waiting expectantly each week for the next instalment. Frank Hampson is widely regarded as the most important British comic strip artist of the post-war period and has an international reputation.

Dan Dare was chief pilot of the Interplanet Space Fleet. His archenemy was The Mekon, super-intelligent ruler of the Treens.

You can discover more about ‘the worlds number one space hero’ in our museum.

Make it!

What you need:
• Scissors
• Thin cardboard
• Pencils
• Paint and paint brushes
• Elastic string
(Adult Supervision Required)

Step 1
• Using a large circular object or compass draw a circle onto the piece of card. Make sure that it fits within the card.
• Repeat this on a separate piece of cardboard.

Step 2
• With the help of an adult cut out the circle shape carefully.
• Draw the design of the characters, then cut out the excess cardboard from the sides.
• Before painting, cut out the eye holes (you may need adult help with this).

Step 3
• Paint your masks in any way that you want.
• Add in as little or as much detail as you wish.
• Allow time for the paint to dry.

Step 4
• Pierce a small hole in each ear.
• Thread your elastic string through the holes and secure with a knot.
• Your face masks are now ready to wear!

Ideas
• You can create masks based off any of your favourite characters.

Instructions by Abi Bore.

Posted on 24 March 2020 under At Home Activities, Museum