The Art and Style of the Dia de Los Muertos

Estevan Ramos | Thursday, November 10, 2016

El Velorio

The 7th-annual El Velorio—or The Funeral—returned to the Plaza De La Raza in East Los Angeles on Nov. 6.

The Dia de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebration is produced by local artist Antonio Pelayo and this year’s amazing celebration did not disappoint those lucky enough to attend.

Showcasing music, art, religion and history of Mexican and Chicano culture, El Velorio keeps to the Dia de los Muertos theme. Music group Metalachi headlines the event, which also features other musical performances and dance groups such as Mariachi Manchester, Casa de Calacas, Folklor Pasion Mexicana and DJ Gazoo.

Art from more than 100 artists is available for purchase or at auction. There was also a fashion show, photo booths, face painting and Dia de los Muertos airbrush-inspired make-up, as well as a classic car show, food and drinks.

Pelayo originally created the event to help showcase new artists. A portion of the arts’ sales goes to after-school arts education and mentorship programs for children of East Los Angeles at Plaza de la Raza.

The event is the must-see event to attend during the Dia de los Muertos season!

Gracias….Amor Y Paz!

DAMAS EXOTICAS - The rich, colorful Mexican culture has its exotic side of mystery, beauty, darkness and light. Rich in textures and colors with use of gems and feathers, ancient history and animal instincts. An iconic beauty!

MUJERES FOLCLORICAS - Mexican folklore and art are prevalent here with traditional handwork dresses and tops, beautiful laces and flower accents. Tradition never goes out of style!

HERMOSAS FLORES - The beautiful flowers are always in style with this rich Mexican culture. Flower crowns --like those seen on the Virgin and saints--are beautifully adorned in hair or flowers outlining corsets. Flowers used as framing complete the perfect detailed look.

RANCHEROS DE MEXICO - Ranch-inspired clothing and art bring out the colorful emotions of Mexico. Music, art and handcrafted details play a big part here.

EL MARIACHI - Going with this year's El Velorio theme, the Mariachi is symbolic in all Mexican celebrations from life to death. The music brings out the passion that is so evident in the Mexican and Chicano culture.

ESTILO PACHUCO - Inspired by 1940s Zootsuiters of East Los Angeles, the Mexican gangster look has always been around, inspiring new generations of Chicano and Mexican culture.