Tag Archives: Mexico

Mexico’s Day of the Dead

Southern and Central Mexicans honor their ancestors

The Mexican Day of the Dead is actually celebrated over two days, Nov.1 and Nov. 2, in Central and Southern Mexico. Legend holds that at midnight on Oct. 31, the gates of heaven fly open and release the souls of those … Continue reading

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Immortalized in Stone: Mayan Death Masks

The secrets of the Mayans reveal death traditions steeped in beauty, creativity and the "transcendence of death"

Paris, 2012 — Thousands of miles away from his native Mexico, at the Pinacothèque museum, the eyes of a Mayan god meet those of spectators from around the world. He is a part of an exhibit that reveals, for the … Continue reading

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How a Bride’s Photoshoot Helped Heal the Loss of a Fiancé

Janine's fiancé died just before their wedding — and she found a unique, powerful way to grieve

“I began to develop a plan,” explained Matt Adcock, “one that would involve a symbolic and ceremonial liberation from grief.” It’s important to understand that Adcock does not work in the funeral industry — nor does he work in counseling, … Continue reading

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Oaxaca, Mexico: The Contemporary Zapotec Funeral

We explore the elements of a contemporary Zapotec Funeral

Earlier this month, SevenPonds discussed the rich, ancient history of the Zapotec people and their perspectives on death and dying. Then we wondered: what is the current status of the Zapotec cultural precense, particularly surrounding death, dying, and funerals? “It … Continue reading

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An Ancient Art: The Xolo Dog Sculptures

How the first Chihuahuas became totems of a good death in Aztec and Mayan art

When we look at the relationships humans create with their objects, we almost always uncover a sort of totemism—a deeper, worshiped meaning applied to something inanimate. And while the word totem may evoke the towering, carved pine poles of Alaska, … Continue reading

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Unlocking the Meaning of Dia de los Muertos

Dispelling myths about this holiday

Many – I would venture to say most – Americans have heard of the Mexican holiday of Dia de los Muertos, the Day of the Dead. But, many of us are still unsure of just what it means, and cultural … Continue reading

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