Lately I’ve been painting tons of family portraits “Day of the Dead” style. I’ve had a few questions about what they mean and why skulls.
So… here’s a very brief history…. You can google more if interested.
Day of the Dead “Dia de los Muertos” is a Mexican holiday celebrated throughout Mexico and acknowledged around the world in other cultures. The holiday focuses on gatherings of family and friends to pray for and remember family and friends who have died. The holiday is celebrated on Nov 1st & 2nd.
Some of the traditions connected with the holiday include honoring the deceased by putting favorite foods of the deceased by the grave site, leaving possessions at the grave and also honoring them with sugar skulls.
I love this tradition and how the the culture makes a point to celebrate their loved ones each year. I think it’s really cool to see people honoring loved ones with things that they loved and remember some of the happy times of the person instead of so much sadness.
Sugar Skulls are really fun ways to represent a person! I love painting Family Portraits – Day of the Dead style, because I like the idea of “Til Death do you part!”
My husband and I on our 15th Wedding Anniversary bought a Bride, Groom, little girl and dog to represent our family. I love that it symbolizes we will be together forever!
Anyway, just a little history lesson. I hope you enjoy this time of year… MY FAV!
Extremely Grateful,
Heidi