On November 2, District 45 families joined the Frida Community Organization (FCO) for a Day of the Dead Art Exhibit at Jefferson Middle School. On display were paper mache Catrinas sculptures created by District 45 families and altars, or “ofrendas,” created by District 45’s Bilingual Parent Advisory Committee (BPAC) and FCO artists.
Ofrendas were personalized with photos in memory of deceased loved ones, historical figures, and celebrities. Traditional Day of the Dead adornments, including vibrant marigold flowers, delicate paper cutouts, colorful sugar skulls, monarch butterflies, and candles decorated the displays, which also featured “pan de muerto” or “bread of the dead,” fruits, crackers, and sweet beverages, all in remembrance of the deceased.
Leading up to the exhibit, families participated in the Catrinas Project, a four-part art workshop where they learned the significance of Catrinas in Mexican culture and created their own to display at the exhibit.
Parent Adriana Ocampo participated in the art exhibit and the Catrinas Project. She particularly enjoyed seeing the unique Catrinas displayed at the exhibit and having the opportunity to share a cultural tradition with other families through the Catrinas Project.
“I loved seeing everyone’s creations. Everyone had a talent for something, and that was beautiful for me to see,” Ocampo said. “Getting together with everyone every Thursday and doing something special that comes from Mexico was the best part.”
Parent Dana Ortega, who also participated in the Catrinas Project and the art exhibit, enjoyed working with her daughters on their Catrina.
“I did most of the work,” Ortega said. “But, just being with them and learning something new was fabulous.”
Thank you to all the participating families and staff who helped create a wonderful exhibit and experience for guests! A special thank-you to the Frida Community Organization for coordinating the art exhibit and Catrinas Project for District 45 families!