2020 Campus Drive, Durham, NC 27705
Monday – Friday: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Saturday – Sunday: 1 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Duke Arts is excited to announce the opening of a 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.
The Ofrenda is open to the general public, and 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 traditional to offer during 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.
Join us at the Duke University Rubenstein Arts Center Gallery as we come together to celebrate, create, and pay homage to the Day of the Dead. Your participation will help weave a tapestry of memories and stories that transcend time, showcasing the enduring significance of this cherished tradition.
The Ofrenda is located in the Rubenstein Arts Center Gallery on the 2nd floor of the Rubenstein Arts Center at Duke University, and is open daily from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. every Monday through Friday, and from 1 p.m. – 6 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.
7 local artists who are members of the ILAAC (Inter-Latin American Artist Collective):
Lety Alvarez
Antonio Alanis
Luis MacKinney
Pepe Caudillo
Peter Marin
Jose Manuel Cruz
Cornelio Campos