'Dia de los Muertos' tradition celebrated at Sheldon Oct. 31-Nov. 1
Released on 10/08/2008, at 2:00 AM
Office of University Communications
University of Nebraska–Lincoln
WHEN: Friday, Oct. 31, 2008, through Nov. 1, 2008
WHERE: Sheldon Museum of Art, 12th and R Streets
Sheldon Museum of Art at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln will celebrate Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) Oct. 31 and Nov. 1. A centuries-old spiritual tradition, Dia de los Muertos expresses the continuity of life by honoring the dead on their return to Earth for one day each year.
The Museum's Great Hall will be elaborately decorated for the art and cultural celebration with papier-mache sculptures and papel picados hanging from the windows. Community artists and UNL students in Sandra Williams's Art in the Community class are working with young students from the community to create these art installations. An ofrenda (altar) will be constructed for visitors to honor their loved ones. The Dia de los Muertos decor in the Great Hall will be on view through Nov. 23.
Events both days are free and open to all. Events and activities include:
Friday, Oct. 31 -- 5-7 p.m., appetizers, silent auction and a welcome to Sheldon; 5:15 p.m., "Legend of the Poinsettia," performed by Lincoln High School Theatre Group; 5:15-7 p.m., music provided by Oscar Rios Pohirieth.
Saturday, Nov. 1 -- 1-4 p.m., appetizers, art-making stations, silent auction; 1:15 and 3:15 p.m., dance performances by Xiotal and Nayare Ballet Folklorico; 1:30-3:30 p.m., music by Mariachi Luna y Sol.
This celebration is made possible through coordination by the Sheldon Art Association and a community advisory committee, and funding from co-sponsor Southeast Community College with additional support from Lincoln Arts Council, BlueCross BlueShield of Nebraska, Lincoln Public Schools, UNL Department of Art and Art History, Nebraska Office of Minority Health and Health Equity, Mexican American Commission, Nebraska Arts Council and support from Lincoln businesses.
Sheldon Museum of Art houses a permanent collection of more than 12,000 objects focusing on American art. The museum, 12th and R streets on the UNL City Campus, is open to the public Tuesday through Sunday. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, and noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday. For information or to arrange a tour, call (402) 472-2461. Additional information is also available on the Sheldon Web site, www.sheldon.unl.edu.