Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is one of the most unique holidays in the world. Originating in Mexico, it is a celebration of the lives of those who have passed, and an invitation for them to return to visit for a day. More recently, it has become an American pop culture obsession. Want to join in on the celebration? Enjoy this handy DIY make-up tutorial on calavera, or skull, make-up applications.

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Step by step instructions on how to make Sugar Skulls for Dia de los Muertos. For more on the history of Dia De los Muertos click here

In the last few years, the US, particularly Texas and California, have taken notice of the Mexican celebration known as Dia de los Muerto, or the Day of the Dead. Cavaleras (or skulls) that are brightly decorated, or skeletons wearing clothing and engaging in activities- playing music, getting married, etc., have become popular imagery for clothing and accessories. Sure, you recognize the fashion trend, but do you understand the origins? Our resident tri-lingual librarian, Hella Goode, enlightens us.

The origins of this awe-inspiring holiday can be traced back a few thousand years or more to the heyday of the Aztec Empire in Central and Southern Mexico. The Aztec religion and gods viewed death as part of the circle of life, and were positive that it was just a step from rebirth. Death was nothing to fear, but to celebrate as a rite of passage. They worshiped the Lady of Death, a goddess called Mictecacihuatl throughout their month-long celebration. They gathered marigolds, as the sweet smell they believed would guide the dead back home, making marigolds the official flower of the celebration.

Of course, when the Spanish arrived, just as they were with most of the indigenous activities, they refused to value this celebration. They were horrified to see death glorified instead of mourned and dedicated themselves to spreading Catholicism throughout the land. The Day of the Dead traditions were so deeply rooted in the Aztec culture, however, that the Spanish found it impossible to get rid of altogether. Instead, they blended their Christian beliefs with the Aztec beliefs. The month-long event became the new three-day celebration that still exists in Mexico and Latin America.

Around this time of year, markets are flooded with Day of the Dead supplies, including popular artist renderings of the Day of the Dead, paper mache or wooden carved figurines of skeletons or “calacas” doing everything from getting married to playing guitar to eating dinner. They are not sad or scary but happy, celebrating their rebirth. They make people laugh. One of the most popular images from this celebration is that of the “Catrina” or the sophisticated lady calaca. She usually wears the fanciest of dresses, a hat, and is often depicted smoking. She was first made by an artist by the name of Jose Guadalupe Posada, born in 1852 in Aguascalientes, Mexico. He was originally an illustrator, but enjoyed crafting as well. His image of the sophisticated lady, Catrina, is the first that inspired many today.

Day of the Dead begins on October 31st, what we recognize as Halloween. This is the day that preparations are made for family altars for the dead which are kept in the home. They usually feature a photo of the deceased, marigolds, the deceased’s favorite foods, and typical Day of the Dead adornments such as candy skulls, tamales, or a piece of “pan de los muertos” or “bread of the dead.” Sometimes families also use “papel picado” or tissue paper cut into intricate designs and burn incense.

November first is called “All Saints Day” in honor of children who have passed away. It is said that on this day the spirits of the children, “angelitos” or little angels, return to their families. Then, on November second, the official Day of the Dead is celebrated. It is also known as “All Souls Day.” On this day, families will visit the cemetery of their family members who have passed, and picnic at their grave which has been decorated with candles, marigolds, a photo, and favorite toys or foods. They sing and carry on, feeling the soul of their loved one beside them. They celebrate way into the night and sometimes until the next morning.

Meanwhile, here in the US, kids are still recovering from their sugar hangovers, and haven’t really reflected on anything more deep than the extent their finger will go into a marshmallow or why Ms. King wasn’t afraid of their Friday the 13th mask. Others will appreciate it artistically, using its colorful displays in their own arts and crafts, and begin to reflect on their own life and rebirth. Like it says in the Lion King, “we are all part of the circle of life.”

Resources

Cano, Theresa. Day of the Dead art. http://www.azcentral.com/ent/dead/articles/dead-history3.html

Heinrichs, Ann. Day of the Dead. The Child’s World, 2006.

Denton-based crafter, hot-rod enthusiast, and army wife Dakota Darling talks sewing, Day of the Dead, and pop culture.

Interview: Shoshana Photographs: Courtesy of Dakota Darling

Q: Tell us about the birth of Dakota Darling Designs. How did you get your start and what’s the story behind the name?

I’ve always been crafty! My father is an artist and a photographer, so I grew up in a home with a darkroom and a closet full of art supplies at my fingertips, and my grandmother insisted that I learn to sew before I was even old enough to see over the top of the table!

Selling my art started in high school and trickled into college, but I never really worked at it very hard-life got in the way!  I decided to start re-working my designs and selling my goods on a more serious level about a year ago when  I was asked to be one of the darlings for Hot Rods and Heels. Since then, I’ve opened an Etsy store and I have a website dedicated solely to my work! When I’m not working my day job teaching art, I work on my designs and my inventory for upcoming events.

I grew up in a small town in North Dakota and I’m always very proud to say that I’m from there. I was struggling with what to call my new “company” and my best friend came up with Dakota Darling. I loved it! It really suits me, I think!
 
Q: When did your love affair with sewing and knitting begin?

Oh, goodness…I can’t remember NOT knowing how to sew. I was so young when my grandmother started to teach me, it’s just what we did together. It’s something that really spoke to me. I have some really funny “clothes” that I made for my dolls when I was about 6. They are hand sewn and made from some of the ugliest polyester pants you could imagine! My mother also has a pillow that I made out of an old sweater when I was about the same age.

I started designing and making clothes for myself when I got my first Singer sewing machine for Christmas. I think I was around 11 years old.  Once I had my own machine, that’s all I wanted to do!

Knitting and other fiber art came WAY later. Over the last ten years or so, I’ve challenged myself to learn a new craft every year. About 4 years ago, it was knitting. I bought myself the first Stitch N’ Bitch book, a set of needles, and a ball of pink yarn to get myself started. The moment I figured it out, it was like dancing! I love the clicking of the needles and the methodical nature of the beast. The only time I am sitting still for longer than 15 minutes is when I’m knitting. I can’t get enough of it!!
 

 
Q: You’ve become known for your Dia de los Muertos inspired purses, which are popular year around. What’s behind the current fascination with calaveras?

 I’m not really sure, but I think the state of the nation has something to do with it, to be honest. With the influx of the Mexican population comes the influence of the Mexican culture. People who have never been exposed to the celebrations and art that coincides with the Mexican culture are starting be exposed to it and its beauty. Here, locally, they are starting to appreciate it more and more.  Also, with hot rod culture on the up and up, skulls in general are becoming very popular. The idea of Calaveras and “hot rod art” becoming pop culture is kind of crazy to me…

Q: When not creating art, how do you spend your free time?

 I have two young boys to wrangle!! My kids keep me so busy! As I mentioned before, I’m an art teacher, so I’m at school from 7:30 until around 5:00 Monday through Friday and I do crazy stuff with my kids most weekends. My husband works out of town, so I am a married single mom rearing my boys practically on my own! When he’s home, we do things as a family, so there is really no such thing as free time!
 
Q: What does the future hold for Dakota Darling Designs? Any upcoming projects or events our readers should know about?

 I try not to look too far into the future. I am enjoying the ride!! My art and photography is starting to make its way here and there, so we’ll see, I suppose! I will have some handmade ornaments (and possibly some other art) on display at the Oxide gallery in Denton in November and December and the next show that I will be doing is the Gifts and Garters show on December 5th in Dallas. Holiday shopping season is around the corner, so I’m rolling up my sleeves and stocking up on yarn and fabric!!

Find out more about where to find Dakota’s goods at www.dakotadarling.com.

Night of Mourning (Noche de Duelo) Designs’ mastermind Angie Wood discusses Guatemala, Buddy Holly, her grandmother, and her artistic aspirations.

Interview: Divertida Devitchka Photographs: courtesy of Angie Wood

You state in your Myspace profile that you were “raised to embrace (your) culture even though at times (you) didn’t.” How and when did you not embrace your culture, and what brought about your decision to begin incorporating it into your art?

My mom, brother and I were all born in Guatemala. I wasn’t raised there as they were. Going back to visit wasn’t a big deal for me until after high school. I didn’t remember those people so to me it wasn’t like I was missing anything. By that time it had been two years since I’d been back and by then my grandmother had passed away. I have great memories of her – staying up late, eating candy and decorating for the holidays. My first taste of tequila was with her in Guatemala City. Maybe it’s just a lot of guilt for not really caring about my heritage growing up, but every time I craft or decorate it’s like I’m young again, getting ready for the holidays.

From what influences do you draw to create your art? It’s apparent that el Día de los Muertos is a big factor.

Life experiences and remembering history. My most recent shrine was of Buddy Holly after a night of listening to my Crickets record. So much history and ideology comes to my head when I hear his music. Lots of beauty and irony.

Your profile also says that you honor life and death and that they are the only things that are certain. Is your art your way of honoring life and death?

I think it is. There’s always some theme or idea behind my work, or at least I try to have one. Last year I did an altar honoring my mother who is living and my grandmother who is not. Almost always I’ll try to have it balanced – yin and yang.

How long have you been creating art and jewelry?

About 2 years as a seller on Etsy. Even if I sell 3 things a year to me it’s meditation and to someone else it might be art or a new favorite item.

Tell me more about your creations. Do you primarily create shrines and altars? What made you decide that there was a market for that type of art?

I make more jewelry throughout the year; more folks seem interested in a one of a kind necklace they can wear out. I don’t think Dallas has a market for shrines/altars just yet. Most people forget about Day of the Dead until the month of. Right now I’m working with small coffin boxes and zebra print. All items are one of a kind, and if there is a duplicate I have it but it will never be exactly the same. For Christmas and birthdays I do custom work.

Any big developments or events on the horizon for you and/or your art?

Doing more shows! I’ve done a few hot rod shows and did a burlesque show. I participated with my husband in two Day of the Dead art shows last year and I’m hoping for the opportunity to do it again this year.

What are your aspirations as an artist?

To make beautiful items that people will not want to throw away when they have to move, haha. Right now I just do it for fun. I try to keep a nostalgic feel to the necklaces I make. I’d eventually like to have my own line of jewelry picked up by Daddy-O’s, Sourpuss or Pinup Girl Clothing.

Anything you’d like to add?

Thanks a lot for checking out my stuff. I look forward to meeting more people who share the passion of doing it yourself. Without Discrimination Death Takes Us All.