We usually think of death as something cold, lonely and robed in black, yet these Day of the Dead altars are anything but somber. This festive holiday brims with calaveras, sugar skulls, well-dressed skeletons, music, candles and altars to the departed.
Day of the Dead, or Día de Los Muertos, is a Mexican holiday that celebrates the life and afterlife of departed friends and family members. Families build altars to their loved ones offering prayers and well-wishes as well as the deceased’s favorite foods and creature comforts.
View these unique and highly personalized altars without crossing over to the other side. The Folk Tree, an art gallery and gift shop, is hosting one of Pasadena’s only Dia de Los Muertos exhibits through November 8. The gallery’s back room brims with darkly humorous depictions of death. Artists expressed their playful creativity through altars, paintings, sculptures and painted knick knacks. Don’t miss the interactive displays where visitors can commemorate their loved ones in communal altars.
Day of the Dead puts a new spin on the afterlife – suggesting that death isn’t just something to be feared but a natural part of our existence. We should celebrate and honor those who go before us – not with tears but with festivities.
The Folk Tree is located at 217 South Fair Oaks Avenue.The Day of the Dead and Ephemera exhibit runs until November 8. For more information call (626) 795-8733.
