Photograph by Paula Lauren Gibson/AfroPix
It’s that time of the year when not all of the skeletons you see are for Halloween. “Dia de los Muertos” or “The Day of the Dead” is a Mexican celebration which dates back to the 16th century if not before. It’s a time for family and friends to gather, to pray for and remember friends and family members who have died. Altars are assembled to celebrate the deceased life with photographs, candles, their favorite things and drink, along with photographic mementos of their life. Many folks dawn their calaveras (skulls) make-up with skeleton body suits or fancy mexican wardrobes. It’s a time for celebration.
“El Velorio” translates into “the wake” – a vigil and offerings of condolences for the departed. This event offered altars, food, drink, music and most interesting, an art show by which various artists expressed their interpretation of the day of the dead. Music by Viento Callejero and ECNO – El Conjunto Nueva Ola.
Text and Photos by Paula Lauren GibsonAfroPix
https://www.facebook.com/vientocallejero
https://www.facebook.com/elconjuntonuevaola
