Folklore Workshop – Día de los Muertos

Each Tuesday afternoon workshop will centre around the myth or folklore topic of that week. The aim will be to discuss ideas surrounding that belief or narrative and to come up with a finished piece using any of the methods and materials that are available. You will have access to paper/card, printing materials (linocut, block, mono or collagraph), paints, drawing materials, 3D resources (clay, paper mache, wire, wool), paints and other bits and pieces. You will have an experienced artist to help you develop your ideas and produce your artwork.

The meaning of Día de los Muertos lies in the belief that death is not the end, but a natural, beautiful continuation of the circle of life. The holiday traces its roots back over 3,000 years to the indigenous peoples of Mesoamerica, such as the Aztecs and Nahua, who believed souls could return to the earthly realm to feast, drink, and celebrate with their families. Families create elaborate, decorative altars (ofrendas) in their homes or at gravesites. These are adorned with photographs of the departed, candles, papel picado (intricate cut-paper banners), and the favourite foods and drinks of their loved ones. Bright orange marigolds with their vibrant colour and strong scent are believed to act as a physical path, guiding spirits back to the world of the living. Brightly decorated sugar skulls are frequently placed on altars as symbolic, playful representations of departed souls and a reminder to mock, rather than fear, mortality.