History, art and music fuse into a unique Days of the Dead celebration at the Meek Mansion in Hayward. Fernando Hernandez, curator of the Oakland Museum’s outstanding Days of the Dead exhibition last year, led the creation of The Art of Remembrance: Days of the Dead, 2009, which is being exhibited inside the Meek Mansion from October 10 to November 8. Hernandez says “setting the exhibit in the historic house will add the defining
touch to the altars and our unique Dias de los Muertos columbarium, creating a Victorian cocoon for the artists’ visions of honoring the dead and welcoming them back amongst the living.”
The Hayward Area Historical Society (HAHS) has teamed up with Hernandez to bring this special event to the Hayward area. The 1869 Meek Mansion is a striking architectural gem with Italianate flourishes built during the height of the Victorian age.
The exhibit begins with a historical overview of the celebration that chronicles the evolution of the Days of the Dead from its pre-Columbian origins, through Spanish colonization, to contemporary celebrations in Mexico.
The heart of the exhibit will be dozens of contemporary memorials and altars created by Bay Area artists.
The colorful, elaborate altars with mementos and intricate hand made decorations will reflect the evolution of altars over time and also represent the unique regional differences in Mexico that characterize Days of the Dead observances.
There will also be a free Days of the Dead Community Celebration on October 24 from 10 AM to 6 PM in Meek Park. Visitors are encouraged to bring mementos, photos, and offerings to remember loved ones from their community and add them to a great communal altar. Free entertainment begins at 1 PM with the Xaguia Aztec Dancers, Grupo Folklorico Tlapalli , Mariachi Juvenil de Hayward, Mexican Balladeer Jesus Cisneros and Latin roots and rock by Blanca. Local artists and vendor booths will be exhibiting and selling Dias de los Muertos artworks, crafts and altar supplies, as well as food and drinks. There will also be art activities for kids.
The entire celebration is made possible through donations from AT&T, UBS Bank, Comerica Bank and local Hayward area businesses including Los Compadres Restaurant, Tu Tienda Azteca, YCS and Associates, and Vic Hubbard Auto Supply.
Tickets to Art of Remembrance: Days of the Dead 2009 are $8 for adults and $5 for students, seniors and children. For exhibit hours, group or school tour information, or to learn how your company can be a part of the festivities, call HAHS at (510) 581-0223, or visit www.haywardareahistory.org. Meek Mansion and Park are located at Hampton and Boston Roads between Mission Boulevard and Meekland Avenue just north of downtown Hayward.