Glass Calavera bead by Melissa Clear
I ADORE!! Dia de los Muertos, Day of the Dead, you know that....it's the Mexican holiday of honoring and remembering those that have passed. I love the art and images, colors and traditions. In many cultures it is taboo to talk about death, to dwell on it, but this Mexican tradition celebrates the memories and lives of loved ones.
So...how about a Bloglandia style celebration of this holiday? Susanna and I would like to host a Dia de los Muertos party. Are you game? You can create an Ofrenda, a journal page, a story, an artwork...an entire Day of the Dead celebration...anything you'd like. Just leave a comment here and at Susanna's if you'd like to play and on Sunday, November 2nd post your photos, art and/or stories. We'll have a page of links so we can all go 'round and celebrate our art, friends and families.
Feel free to use this button to tell others about the party.
What exactly is Dia de los Muertos? Once a year on November 1st (for children, dia de los Inocentes)and November 2nd (All Saints Day) families build Ofrendas, alters that contain photographs, the favorite foods and drinks of the dead...clothing, marigolds....lots of marigolds, sugar skulls and other art, anything that brings to mind the one that has passed away. The vibrant artwork depicting skeletons doing worldly things, bread shaped into skulls, garlands of marigolds are used to decorate Ofrendas, cemeteries and homes in honor and celebration of the deceased. Need some ideas?? Read on....
This is an alter that Mr R created for his mother, father and daughter, candles are lit and it is decorated with marigolds this time of year. It contains photographs of his parents, both as young people and as grama and grampa to Tess, a little horse to remind us of his mothers collections, pictures of John Wayne....her fav...as well as crosses and rosaries.
The Lakewood Cultural Center has a Day of the Dead exhibit of work by Colorado artist Carlos Fresquez.
His paintings, prints and installations honor and celebrate his family and cultural heritage. This show is not to be missed if you happen to be in the area.
Jose Guadalupe Posada was a graphic artist in the late 1800's that wrote and illustrated for newspapers and political satire. After his death his work was re-discovered and is credited with inspiring images for Dia de los Muertos and has since inspired many artists.
A journal page I created for Mr R's mom and my 2 grandmothers...
I hope you ALL join the party! Remember to leave me a comment here then go on over to Susanna's and leave her a comment as well so we can begin adding links....now go off and create and post on Sunday, November 2nd.
Hi Stephanie,
What a grand blog for Dia de Los Muertos.
A great holiday and celebration.
Como Siempre tu Amigos de Rock Hill SC
Posted by: Antoinette | October 06, 2008 at 01:43 AM
Steph~
Oh, what a great party. Not being very creative and knowing even less about Dia le Los Muetos, I don't think I'd have much to offer...but I will certainly be tuning in to see the grand festivities. Good Luck..sounds like a fun time :)
Posted by: My Mélange | October 06, 2008 at 06:05 AM
I'd love to participate!
Posted by: justaplanerideaway | October 06, 2008 at 06:12 AM
Colour me interested!
Posted by: AscenderRisesAbove | October 06, 2008 at 08:15 AM
Stephanie, what a great idea...I'd love to join in!
Posted by: Kate I | October 06, 2008 at 08:51 AM
In.
Posted by: Julie Prichard | October 06, 2008 at 08:56 AM
I LOVE the vibrant colours of your post, Stephanie. Your whole blog is a happy celebration! Your altars and journal page are wonderful...and so personal to your family. We're going to have FUN!
Posted by: susanna | October 06, 2008 at 09:14 AM
oh YES!!!
both of my boys' birthdays surround this holiday - we'll all participate - what a terrific theme for a party - and I've got lots of cool stuff - yes loving fall - my to do list is long like the shadows...
xox - eb.
Posted by: eb | October 06, 2008 at 09:28 AM
Oh, Stephanie, please count me in! Not only do I love this idea, but -- shh! It's a secret -- I have a very important birthday coming up on a particularly spooky holiday just before. I've been looking for a special way to celebrate. This is just the ticket! Looking forward to the fun.
Posted by: JeriAnn | October 06, 2008 at 09:59 AM
What a great idea! I would love to participate. I sent a piece into the Artist's Nook for their Dia de los Muertos show that opened last weekend. And now this - what color and tradition!
Erin in Morro Bay
Posted by: Erin Perry | October 06, 2008 at 12:18 PM
this sounds to be wonderful fun. i love your journal page! i will go to susanna's an read more...
Posted by: robin bird | October 06, 2008 at 02:03 PM
Absolutely Stephanie!!! I've always wanted to create something for this - my mind is reeling thinking of doing something for my Mom for this! I will let Susanna know as well.
I will add the badge to my blog as well!!
I love blogland parties!!
XOXOXOXO
Posted by: Lisa Oceandreamer S. | October 06, 2008 at 02:22 PM
What a Wonderful idea! I don't have a blog, but I will try to do a little something in keeping with the spirit of the day. And I will DEFINITELY be checking out everyone's posts to see what all you artists have done!
Posted by: RJ | October 06, 2008 at 02:40 PM
Hi I'm visiting fro Susanna's Bolg, actually I'm her DH's little sister. I would love to be a part of this fantastic day.
Posted by: Tina | October 06, 2008 at 02:42 PM
I am quite excited to read about this her and at Suzanna's blog. I am not a huge fan of Halloween but love anything to do with the Day of the dead..a fascinating a beautiful tribute to family. Count me in:) I'll be out of town but will still try and get something up:)
Posted by: Du Buh Du Designs | October 06, 2008 at 03:04 PM