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Studio Art, Midway Campus
Day of the Dead at PES [pics]
Day of the Dead (Dia des los Muertos) is a Mexican holiday that is celebrated in connection with All Saints Day, November 1. It is a time to remember loved ones who have died. Altars, or ofrendas, with flowers (especially marigolds), candles, pictures of loved ones who have died, special foods and decorations are set up in homes, churches, and businesses. The attitude is respectful but happy. The decorations, treats, and family togetherness make the occasion fun and joyful, not scary or sad.
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This beautiful Mexican tradition has become a Parish Episcopal School tradition as well. Students make decorations for the ofrenda in the folk art traditions of Mexico. Sugar skulls with colorful icing, papel picado (cut paper banners), ceramic candleholders, skeleton puppets, and paper marigolds are some of the crafts. Prayers, memorial crosses, and personal ofrendas dedicated to loved ones are reverently added to the display. This is an interdisciplinary event as well as a school-wide one. Teachers in Spanish, art, religion, social studies, and science work together so that the experience is many-faceted. We believe that the event is one that builds a bridge to another culture through personal participation and understanding.
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