This year's theme invites artists and visitors alike to remember and share the stories and people who have influenced our lives. Seven altars will be presented.
Kathleen Araiza and Ricky Araiza are creating an altar in honor of their great-grandmother, Petra Muñoz. Widowed at the age of 30 with seven children to support, Petra hosted weekly poker games in her basement for locals to play, laugh and buy her homemade enchiladas.
"Three Dogs Life: Ofrenda de los Perros" is Anastacia Andrade's altar, memorializing the events of her life with her three dogs: Juaquin, Jake and Jackie.
Jenny Salazar O'Connell, with Claire Salazar Hansen and Andrietta Salazar Lee, are crafting an altar to remember their father's love of books and storytelling, and share his philosophy of peace.
The altar created by Rosé Triumpho Sullivan and Marcela Uribe will reflect memories of their mothers through needlework and recipes. Visitors will be invited to share their own recipes and recollections on paper provided by the women.
The Friends of the Phoenix Public Library will host a public reception with the artists 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 25.
Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is celebrated in Mexico on Nov. 1 and 2. It is a complex tradition that varies from region to region with roots in ancient Aztec religion. It is a festive occasion, set aside to honor, remember and celebrate the lives of departed loved ones.
Phoenix Public Library is a system of 16 branch libraries and the Burton Barr Central Library. For more information, call 602-262-4636 or visit phoenixpubliclibrary.org. Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/phxlibrary and "like" us on Facebook at facebook.com/phoenixpubliclibrary.
