6–9 PM

Free and Open to All

Join us at the Duke University Rubenstein Arts Center Gallery as we celebrate the Day of the Dead.

From October 18 – November 3, the 2nd Floor Gallery Space will be home to a large-scale Día de Los Muertos Ofrenda (altar piece), featuring seven calaberas by local Latinx artists, and community contributions in memory of loved ones.  This public reception offers the chance to gather and celebrate on the Day of the Dead itself and enjoy the Ofrenda before the exhibition closes on November 3.

All visitors are invited to contribute to this meaningful project by adding photographs and objects that are representative of a departed loved one. Please note that we are unable to return offerings to the original owner, so please do not leave anything valuable or original. While a loved one’s favorite food is traditionally offered during the Day of the Dead, we ask that you leave only non-perishable food items, and no liquids at all. We encourage you to substitute perishable foods for photos, drawings, labels or other creative alternatives.

Your participation will help weave a tapestry of memories and stories that transcend time, showcasing the enduring significance of this cherished tradition.

Location Information:

The Ofrenda is located in the Rubenstein Arts Center Gallery on the 2nd floor of the Rubenstein Arts Center at Duke University.

About the Ofrenda:

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 includes bright yellow and gold marigolds made of tissue paper to guide spirits to the ofrenda, papel picado (perforated paper), symbolizing the union between life and death, and more.

This installation promises to be a poignant reminder of the importance of honoring those who came before us, while fostering a sense of togetherness and understanding across cultural boundaries.

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Learn more about the Día de los Muertos Ofrenda here.