Día de los Muertos

Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a celebration of life and death. Día de los Muertos originated in ancient Mesoamerica (Mexico and northern Central America) where indigenous groups, including Aztec, Maya and Toltec, had specific times when they commemorated their loved ones who had passed away. Certain months were dedicated to remembering the departed, based on whether the deceased was an adult or a child. After the arrival of the Spanish, this ritual of commemorating the dead was intertwined with two Spanish holidays: All Saints Day (Nov. 1) and All Soul’s Day (Nov. 2). Día de los Muertos is often celebrated on Nov. 1 as a day to remember children who have passed away, and on Nov. 2 to honor adults. Día de los Muertos is an opportunity to remember and celebrate the lives of departed loved ones. Like any other celebration, Día de los Muertos is filled with music and dancing. The ofrenda is often the most recognized symbol of Día de los Muertos. This temporary altar is a way for families to honor their loved ones and provide them what they need on their journey. They place down pictures of the deceased, along with items that belonged to them and objects that serve as a reminder of their lives. Every ofrenda also includes the four elements: water, wind, earth and fire. Water is left in a pitcher so the spirits can quench their thirst. Papel picado, or traditional paper banners, represent the wind. Earth is represented by food, especially bread. Candles are often left in the form of a cross to represent the cardinal directions, so the spirits can find their way. Flowers, butterflies and skulls are typically used as symbols.  

I love to photograph various types of art and especially the sugar skulls.  Here are some of my favorite shots over the years thus far! 

Tibsen Cosmetics
Skull Candy
Dia De Los Muertos

Photographer: Celisse Elaine
Model: Matty
Shop: Tibsencosmetics.com
Makeup: Chrystallinajaartistry.com

2nd Model: Marisela Alcala

Photography by Celisse Elaine