The Art of Dia de los Muertos
Dia de los Muertos – or Day of the Dead – is a widely celebrated holiday honoring our deceased loved ones annually on November 1st and 2nd. With some traditions originating in Central and Southern Mexico, the event coincides with the Catholic holidays called All Souls Day and All Saints Day, and is therefore a widespread tradition in many cultures. The art associated with the holiday is a combination of cultural folklore, skull and skeleton motifs, crosses, masks, and other references to the life into death transition. An art exhibit featuring both the traditional aspects and more contemporary interpretations is on view at the Spring Arts Collective Gallery, upstairs from The Last Bookstore, at 453 South Spring Street, in downtown Los Angeles. A closing reception will be held on November 2nd, from 6-9pm.
The exhibited artwork includes creative renditions of the classic skull symbol, (in Spanish, called Calavera) in multiple mediums, including assorted small sculptures and humorous skeleton sculptures of famous departed beings. Honoring animals that have passed is interpreted via the use of bones in contemporary mixed media works. The use of decorative masks worn during some holiday festivities is illustrated in face-painting, another common art form. Presented on small canvases, we will also feature a renowned body-painter during the closing night party, who will be available to paint faces that evening.
Our featured artists include both emerging and established artists in all mediums. We are exhibiting painting, photography, mixed media collage, solid paper sculpture, and work made of recycled materials and bones.
Curated by Dale Youngman, the participating artists include: Clare Holzer, Desiree Grisham, Gregory P.Rodriguez, Jania Vanderwerff, Karrie Ross, Kim Kimbro Taylor, Liz Huston, Maureen Haldeman, Mayra Jimenez, Nicolette Spear, Robert Rosenblum, Sarah Stone, Sherri Miranda, Susanna Eggli, and Temoc.
Remembering the dearly departed and celebrating their life, all are welcome to this free event. Come meet the artists, hear their inspiration, and take home a bit of culture! The Spring Arts Collective Gallery is located on the mezzanine of The Last Bookstore, open daily 10 AM – 10 PM.
