Dia de los Muertos
A Day of Remembrances

Dear Parents;
The 7th grade art students are about to study the folk toys, objects and customs surrounding the Mexican tradition known as Dia de los Muertos or the Day of the Dead.

Dia de los Muertos is a uniquely Indo-Hispanic custom that demonstrates a strong sense of love and respect for one’s ancestors, celebrates the continuance of life, family relationships and community solidarity - all positive concepts. It is believed that the deceased are given permission to visit with their family and relatives here on earth on one special day. The families prepare special treats, foods, folk toys and decorations in anticipation of these joyous visits and to celebrate the life of deceased family members.

A Day of Remembrances
We will be looking at Mexican themes and designs for our inspiration as we create some of the folk toys and decorations associated with this special time. Students will be encouraged to use this inspiration to ‘remember’ important people, pets, events and attitudes that have enriched our lives.

Collaborative Exhibition of Student Art
This unit of study will culminate in a collaborative display of art at the 6th Annual Altares del Mundo exhibition, in Sacramento, during the month of October. In the past, this exhibition has been sponsored by the Phantom Galleries program, Gallery Posada and local professional artists. Student group displays from such schools as, John Stills Center for the Creative Arts (Sacramento City School District) and Sacramento City College have been included in this show in past years.

f you have any questions or concerns regarding your student’s participation in this unit of study or in the optional exhibition, please contact me, at __________. Copies of the curriculum materials which will be used are available for preview. Alternative assignments can be arranged as needed.

PLEASE SIGN AND RETURN THIS FORM FOR 20 EXTRA CREDIT POINTS!

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My student___________________________________________________________

has my permission to participate in this unit of study.

YES

NO

My student’s work may be exhibited as part of the Emerson group display in the Sacramento exhibition.

YES

NO

Pictures of my student (without name) and his/her artwork may be used in electronic presentations for educational purposes only.

YES

NO

Parent Signature:____________________________________________________________