A Celebration of Souls

Every year on November 1 and 2, families in villages across Mexico gather to welcome home the visiting spirits of departed relatives on the Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead).

Families prepare for the celebration weeks in advance by planning lively reunions, decorating burial plots, and preparing special foods. Participants honor the deceased with home altars that include skeleton models, elaborate wreaths and crosses, votive lights, and fresh seasonal flowers.

Encounter the colorful traditions of this luminous holiday with 26 stunning color photographs that capture Day of the Dead celebrations in and around Oaxaca, Mexico. A Celebration of Souls: Day of the Dead in Southern Mexico focuses on the lives of villagers as they prepare centuries-old recipes, scatter marigolds to guide the dead home, and celebrate this annual event.

Resources

Specifications

  • Gallery Requirements: At least 100 linear ft. (30 m.)
  • Shipping: Round trip shipping paid by host venue
  • Language: All text in English and Spanish; language may be converted by host venues

Image slideshow

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Bring A Celebration of Souls to Your Institution

Contact us to learn more about hosting the exhibition at travelingexh@fieldmuseum.org or 312-665-7119 | 312-665-7311