Day of the Dead honored at BIMA

By Staff report • October 27, 2023 1:30 am
Keith Brofsky courtesy photo Items placed at the altar at a Day of the Dead celebration.
Keith Brofsky courtesy photo Items placed at the altar at a Day of the Dead celebration.

The Bainbridge Island Museum of Art annual Day of the Dead celebration returns with expanded exhibitions and programs.

BIMA has celebrated the Mexican cultural celebration Dia de los Muertos each fall since it opened in 2013.

In honor of the 10th event, there will be an exhibition featuring the works of local artists. It will include a traditional alter open to the public for offerings/remembrances starting Oct. 28. Supporting programs include a public celebration, premiere of a new play by local playwright-artist Araceli Cruz and a performance by the state’s largest mariachi band in collaboration with Bainbridge Performing Arts. Entry to BIMA and access to the exhibition and altar are free through Dec. 31.

The Mexican celebration is centered around gatherings to pray for, remember and support those who have died. Visitors honor them by leaving sugar skulls, marigolds, favorite foods and beverages, possessions and photos of the deceased at the altar.

Events will include:

Oct. 28 – Community celebration. 9-10:45 a.m. Butterfly Wing Workshop at Kids Discovery Museum. Make wings and join kids in costume along flower path into museum humming with music, art and activities. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Public opening and celebration. Enjoy samples of Mexican hot chocolate and pan de muerto, make-and-take art activities and strolling musicians performing Mexican folks songs. Both activities are free.

Oct. 30 – 7 p.m. Mount Vernon Mariachi & Folklorico with over 100 students. At the new Buxton Center at BPA. Colorful costumes and music. Tickets and details at www.biartmuseum.org

Nov. 2-4 – The play Cempasuchil: A Tale of Love and the Sun God. Creation story of how the world came to be and a play about two young Aztecs and their love being tested by fate, war and death. Tickets at www.biartmuseum.org

Through Jan. 1, 2024 – Exhibition: Dia de los Muertos. Brightly colored Mexican folk art sculptures of mythical creatures. Works by Cruz, Spanky Loco of Poulsbo and three Seattle artists.

BIMA is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Admission is free.