June 26, 2018 (Detroit)—The Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA), in collaboration with the Mexican Consulate of Detroit, extends an open call for proposals to create ofrenda altars, or offerings, honoring the life and memory of lost loved ones as part of a celebration of the traditions of Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead).

This is the sixth consecutive year the DIA has presented “Ofrendas: Celebrating el Día de Muertos” consisting of ofrendas created by local artists. This year it will be on view Oct. 12–Nov. 11.

In Mexico and other Latin American countries, the Day of the Dead celebrates the lives of close relatives, friends or community members who have passed away. Objects important to lost loved ones, such as favorite foods, drinks, mementos and pictures, are collected and incorporated into elaborate displays that include pan de muerto (bread of the dead), sugar skulls, candles, flowers, papel picado (paper cutouts) and other decorations.

Proposals are due by Aug. 10 at 5 p.m. Submissions will be reviewed by a committee composed of museum staff and local community members and selected artists will be notified by Aug. 24. 

To submit a proposal, please fill out the submission form at http://bit.ly/OfrendaProposals.

Please note that in order to participate, artists must be available to install their ofrenda on Oct. 7, 8 or 9 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and to deinstall and remove all materials on Nov. 11 from 5 to 8 p.m. Selected artists will also be required to participate in a Q&A session on Nov. 11 from 2 to 3 p.m. to provide insights into the inspiration for their ofrenda.

This program is in partnership with Consulado de Carrera de Mexico en Detroit.