The Day of the Dead is one of Mexico’s most extraordinary traditions, which celebrates the lives of those who have passed away. This practice is deeply rooted in the ancient Mesoamerican cultures, which believed in life after death, and the Catholic religion that remembers the departed on All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days each November 1st and 2nd.  After the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century, Indigenous and Catholic traditions blended, and over time, each region of Mexico incorporated local customs and beliefs into the memorial celebrations.

Today, families across the country continue to celebrate the Day of the Dead, welcoming back the souls of the departed with cemetery vigils and ofrendas—offerings lovingly arranged on altars that include candles, photographs, favorite foods, and meaningful objects. It is a celebration of remembrance, a time to pause, reflect, and keep alive the memory of those no longer with us, recognizing the enduring presence they hold in our lives.

Our 39th annual exhibition is dedicated to the hundreds in Texas and New Mexico who tragically lost their lives in the floods.

Step into the Courtyard and continue your Día de Muertos journey with an immersive installation designed and curated by the youth artists of Yollocalli Arts Reach, featuring vibrant original artwork inspired by traditional nicho boxes. Pause at the community ofrenda where you’re invited to leave a note, drawing, or memory in honor of a loved one. Together, we’ll create a beautiful collective tribute.

Curated by Elisa Soto, Dolores Mercado, and Cesáreo Moreno 

Installations

Crystal Arellano (Chicago)
Arturo Crisanto (Puebla)
Alejandro García Nelo (Edo de México)
Thomas Kelly College Preparatory High School (Chicago)
Mariana Roldan y Audias Roldan (Guerrero)
Daniel Saint Marquez (Chicago)
Jorge Valdivia (Chicago)

Participating Artists

Kelynn Z. Alder
Mary J. Andrade
Daniel Barraza
Cristina Cárdenas
Ma. Guillermina Chávez Ávila
Nicolás de Jesús
Diske Uno
Esperanza Felipe Mulato
José Luis Fitch Jiménez
Leopoldo García Aguilar
Diego Isaías Hernández Méndez
Ángel Infanzón
Inocencio Jiménez Chino
Violeta Juárez
Flavio López (ANXEL)
Raúl López Reyes
Ricardo Linares García
Brandon Maldonado
Hector Javier Martinez
Mazatl
Ann Murdy
Jesús Oré Landeo
José Parra
Gabriela Perez de Martinez
Los Ramírez Castañeda
Jorge Rosano (1955–2011)
Eduardo Robledo
Isis Rodriguez
Sandy Rodriguez
Fredy Santiz Martínez
Sir Charles
Luis Tapia
Vincent Valdez 
Ismael Vargas
Foto Mayo