Branigan Cultural Center, 501 N. Main St., announces a new exhibit, “A Celebration of Souls: Day of the Dead in Southern Mexico,” that explores the history, heritage, and traditions of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebrations in Oaxaca, Mexico.
The exhibit opens Friday, Oct. 6, 2023, and runs through Saturday, Dec. 30, 2023.
The exhibit features 26 photographs that capture a typical Oaxacan Day of the Dead celebration. The exhibit was developed by The Field Museum in collaboration with Mars, Incorporated.
Each November 1 and November 2, on the Christian holidays of All Saint’s Day and All Soul’s Day, families in villages across Mexico gather to welcome home the visiting spirits of departed relatives on Día de los Muertos. The photographs in this exhibition show Oaxacan villagers immersed in all aspects of traditional celebrations – which often includes decorating burial plots, lively family reunions, and the preparation of special foods.
Altars are created in honor of the deceased that feature skeleton models, elaborate wreaths and crosses, votive lights, and fresh seasonal flowers. Day of the Dead is both a personal and communal celebration of life with public processions, offerings of foods, and personal reminiscences.
Branigan Cultural Center is open from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday. There is no admission charge.
The museum is accessible via RoadRUNNER Transit Route 1, Stop 1. For information, visit the Museums System website at www.lascruces.gov/museums or call (575) 541-2154.