BHC to discuss altar installation for Day of the Dead

Papel picado may seem like an ordinary art form at first glance. However, its significance with the Day of the Dead holiday is quite apparent at the Brownsville Historical Association’s Dia de Los Muertos community altar.

In shades of yellow, purple, pink, blue and green, the traditional decoration adorns the museum’s three-tiered display. It is just one aspect of the custom that will be discussed during “The Basics of Altar Installation for Day of the Dead” gallery talk today at the Brownsville Heritage Complex.

“They have some skeletons dancing, we have some that are riding bikes…there’s even one of a pumpkin, which is kind of odd,” said Jessica Villescaz, BHC curator for special collections and archives. “I left it in there because it shows how Day of the Dead arts and crafts have come to assimilate with some aspects of U.S. culture.”

Using the museum’s community altar as a backdrop, the 45-minute presentation will focus on many components of altar-making for the Day of the Dead observance including the symbolism, art forms, and historical elements that have encompassed the tradition both in Mexico, as well as in the local community. The free event is part of the museum’s month-long Dia de los Muertos Cultural Series, sponsored by Target.

Villescaz said that prior to the presentation, participants are encouraged to bring their own items for the museum’s community altar, and will learn the different ways the memorabilia can be displayed at gravesites, homes and other locations.

“Basic elements would be like the flowers of the dead, the yellow marigolds, sugar skulls, if you have them, some of the folk art, photos, candles, sometimes food or items that the person liked when they were alive,” Villescaz said.

In addition to today’s gallery talk, the museum will present a Free Shoebox Altar Workshop on Oct. 20 where participants can make their own miniature altars at the Old City Cemetery Center. For more information, contact the Brownsville Heritage Complex at (956) 541-5560.

What: “The Basics of Altar Installation for Day of the Dead” gallery talk

When: 10 a.m., today

Where: Brownsville Heritage Complex, 1325 East Washington St.

Cost: Free

For more information: Contact the Brownsville Heritage Complex at (956) 541-5560