Duke Arts in association with The Center for the Nuevo South collaborated on Día de los Muertos Ofrenda, a Day of the Dead altar piece, in the Rubenstein Arts Center Gallery. Guided by the expertise of local Latinx artists, this ofrenda serves as a powerful homage to the rich cultural heritage and sacred traditions of the Day of the Dead.

Seven artists from the Inter-Latin American Artist Collective (ILAAC) have created oversized calaveras, colorfully painted skulls traditionally used to decorate ofrendas, and transformed the space with traditional elements. Surrounding the gallery, visitors will find bright yellow and gold marigolds made of tissue paper to guide spirits to the ofrenda, papel picado (perforated paper) that symbolizes the union between life and death, and more.

This installation reminds visitors of the importance of honoring those who came before us, while fostering a sense of togetherness and understanding across cultural boundaries.