Day of the Dead Celebration in Color

The Day of the Dead

What I like about The Little Orange Desk is that it really inspires me to think about color, design and the aesthetics that surround me. It’s a terrific opportunity to take stock of how much creativity and art play a role in my life; and since today is the Latin celebration of the Day of the Dead, it seems like the l.o.d is a perfect place to share some Latin creativity.

One of the best parts of Latin culture in my opinion is the expressiveness of their celebration of life and relationships. Its easy to see when you look around a Latin neighborhood like Mexican Village or if you are in Mexico surrounded by brightly painted buildings and the crowds all wear festive, colorful fabrics but my favorite way to see this creativity is in the folk art that is so distinctly Mexican.  For me it is the playfulness and the colors of Day of the Dead art that really excites me.

Many people think of Day of the Dead artwork as being about devils and skeletons and so naturally they don’t see the playfulness of it. For example, the devil in this style of art is really meant to portray the fool rather than something sinister. Look at some of these playful examples, aren’t the colors vibrant? See the playfulness in the simplicity of shape?

 

The Day of the Dead is a celebration for loved ones lost so in such a vibrant culture the best way to celebrate is with color and a sense of playfulness. I never tire of the color and passion that’s a part of Mexican folk art. In Mexico today, family and friends will gather in cemeteries throughout the country for a time of celebration of the lives that once were; for the memories and stories that they have left behind. Most certainly there will be tears of longing but there will also be song, dance and laughter, there will be food and celebration of lives well lived and yes, there will also be art, this fantastic creative spirit of celebration of the dead and the memories they leave for us. I don’t know about you, but this seems like a much better way to be remembered! - Paul