‘Day of the Dead: Remembrances’ at Hayward Public Library

“La Dama de las Flores” Acrylic on Canvas, by Karla López 

Day of the Dead focuses on the belief that the spirits of lost loved ones; often represented by happy skulls, return from another world to be with their friends and family for one time. It is time for celebration, remembrance and honor. This year's exhibition "Day of the Dead: Remembrances" explores the symbolisms of the celebration through original paintings by Karla López, an offering honoring artist Frida Kahlo by Winda Shimizu, and a 3D large "Catrina" by Patricia Rennie. Come and celebrate "Day of the Dead: Remembrances" on the second floor of the Hayward Public Library, 888 C Street in Hayward until November 18. 

3D “Catrina” by Patricia Rennie

"Each year, I look forward to the beautiful sights, sounds, smells, and traditions of Día de los Muertos. It is a time that is filled with celebration, music, food, and flowers. But most importantly, it’s a time to remember our loved ones and to celebrate their lives and the memories they’ve left us with. During this time, we get together and feel connected both to those who are no longer here, and those who are present" said exhibiting artist Karla López.  Her colorful paintings in this exhibition include a self-portrait, colorful calaveras, and a nighttime cemetery scene.  

A 3D large scale "Catrina" by self-taught artist Patricia Rennie highlights the exhibition. Rennie's idea for the Catrina came from her pride and love for her Mexican Heritage and enjoyment of The Day of the Dead celebrations. "I created and designed the skeleton, clothing, and accessories using a variety of mediums and the project took approximately two months to complete. The Catrina is a mixed medium visual art piece that encompasses my artistic interests of designing, molding, painting, and sewing using clay, paper, wire, fabric, and oil and acrylic paints" shared exhibiting artist Patricia Rennie. The creations by artists Lopez and Rennie were influenced by the iconic calavera “La Catrina” created by Mexican illustrator Jose Guadalupe Posada c. 1910.

"Day of the Dead: Remembrances" exhibition is a collaborative effort of Hayward Arts Council and Hayward Public Library presenting original paintings and symbolisms of this joyful Mexican celebration of life.

For more details please visit haywardartscouncil.org and https://www.hayward-ca.gov/public-library/using-library/locations-hours

Winda I. Shimizu is Hayward Arts Council Executive Director.