Day of the Dead

What is Day of the Dead?

• Day of the Dead is an annual festival, celebrated primarily in Mexico, as well as other parts of the world.

• It is a time when families come together to honor and remember relatives and friends that have passed away.

What is Day of the Dead?

• Even though it is a time to remember the dead, this is a very colorful and festive occasion.

• During Day of the Dead, you’ll see smiling skulls (“calaveras”), flowers, candy, and parades.

Day of the Dead Calaveras

• Calavera is Spanish for “skull”.

• Day of the Dead is known for its abundance of skull imagery – skull cookies and candy, skull-themed artwork, decorations, and even face paint.

What are some key characteristics of Day of the Dead calaveras?

In your sketchbook…

• Draw a basic skull• Add symmetrical designs inspired by Day of

the Dead aesthetics• Think about a variety of lines and shapes (the

more closed shapes you have, the more color you will be able to add later!)