“The Mexican…is familiar with death. [He] jokes about it, caresses it, sleeps with it, celebrates it. It is one of his favourite toys and his most steadfast love.”

-Octavio Paz

About

Day of the Dead, also known as Día de los Muertos, is a traditional Mexican holiday observed on November 1st and 2nd each year. During this time, families come together to honor their deceased loved ones by creating altars adorned with marigolds, glowing candles, cherished photos, and the favorite foods of the departed. The belief behind this holiday is that the spirits of the deceased return to be with their families once more. Celebrations for Day of the Dead encompass a variety of events that feature music, storytelling, and various rituals that serve to commemorate the lives of those who have passed on.

In the week leading up to the day, various places in the city will have their offerings on display. We will explore the various contributions at the same time learning about the tradition’s complex origins from both Mesoamerican and Christian beliefs. We will also look at the tradition through the eyes of Mexican artists such as José Guadalupe Posada and Frida Kahlo.

Art Making

Each day we will be recording our visual experiences in a sketchbook. A daily art lesson by Mark Vazquez-Mackay will equip you with a border range of visual language to note your experience. We will learn and apply drawing techniques, collaging methods, and printmaking.

Spanish lessons/tutoring

A short Spanish lesson will be given each day in addition to having access to Carmen, a language teacher, who can help you develop your Spanish at whatever level it is at.

Where we will visit

-Day of the dead parade

-Huge traditional flower market

- Casa Azul / Museo Frida Kahlo

-Museums with relevant exhibitions

-Templo Mayor

-Various murals

COST

$1,675 shared accommodation

$1,925 private accommodation

Included in trip

-7 nights hotel accommodation

-Picked up and dropped off at airport

-All museum and entrance fees

-Transportation throughout the week

-Art lessons / language lessons

-Full time access to 2 guides

-Zoom group meeting/presentation a month before trip

Not Included in trip

-Airfare

-Meals

-Travel insurance

50% deposit is required to reserve your spot. deposit is 100% refundable before October 1st, 2024.

Final payment is due October 1st, 2024

Spaces are limited to only 9 participants.

Note…

Mexico City, like other cultural capitals, is a walking experience. We will be walking regularly everyday. Additionally, it is very alive and can be loud…especially in the historic centre.

Accommodations

We will spend 7 nights in the historic centre of the City. Just a few blocks from the Zocalo and Cathedral. Some of the worlds best restaurants, architecture, and museums all within walking distance.