Margarita Figueroa
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Dia de los Muertos Arts Project
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Margarita Figueroa Arts Project
Margarita Figueroa art transcends borders, recognizes our present cultural accomplishments in visual arts while simultaneously honoring the past. Creator of larger-than-life Calavera Catrinas inspired by Day of the Dead traditions and Mexican icons, renowned Mexican artist Margarita Figueroa's mixed-media sculptural constructions and installations transform cultural exhibitions. Margarita sculpts whimsical Catrinas in the Alambroide technique which consists in wired structured figures covered with papier-mâché and painted with acrylic colors. One of Día de los Muertos’ most recognizable figures, La Catrina was born out of Mexican social satire depicting the upper classes. Today, however, we see Catrina as a beloved image of the Day of the Dead celebration that represents not only the gleeful nature of the festivity, but also the promotion of gender equality and the empowerment of women. The Día de los Muertos Holiday has expanded beyond its roots in Mexico to provide comfort and community to those who have lost loved ones in cultures around the world. "Día de los Muertos is distinctly different from Halloween in origin, celebration and culture. Día de los Muertos is truly a joyous celebration of life and the beauty of remembering those who have come before us," said Adriana Chavela, Executive Director of Hola Community Arts. "During this celebration, the dead sort of become a part of the living world, as families tell stories and reflect on memories of them." The Día de los Muertos / Day of the Dead holiday is celebrated on November 1st and 2nd throughout Latin America, but is more closely associated with Mexico, where it originated. IN THE PRESS: Día de los Muertos Exhibit Signals Effort to Diversify Local Arts Scene Blue Ridge Public Radio Día de los Muertos Art Exhibit Debuts at the Newly Updated Wortham Center Hola Carolina Magazine |
