ST. GEORGE — St. George Art Museum invites the community to enjoy pan de muerto, horchata and a performance from Ballet Folklorico Anayansi as part of the fourth annual Day of the Dead Celebration, Oct. 25 from 6-8 p.m.
According to a news release issued by the city, admission to the event is free, and attendees are encouraged to tour the museum’s current exhibits, including its Day of the Dead Exhibition, with featured artist Zaida Machado.
“We are the only museum in Washington County that holds a large Day of the Dead event. It’s a great way for us to showcase Mexican culture in both performing and visual arts,” Elena Turman, administrative professional for the St. George Art Museum, said in the news release. “In addition to the food and entertainment, you will love the vast array of art on display.”
Widely observed in Mexico, Day of the Dead celebrates family members and friends who have passed from this life. It is considered a holiday — more about celebrating rather than mourning — and it can take on a humorous tone, as celebrants reminisce about funny moments with those who have departed.
Ballet Folklorico Anayansi’s performance will begin at approximately 7 p.m. Pan de muerto and horchata will be available while supplies last. El Tarasco’s and Cal’s Smoke N’ Taco food trucks will be parked on 200 North (in front of the museum) and selling food the day of the event.
“This event was very popular a year ago, so plan to arrive early,” Turman added.
Featured artist
Zaida Machado, a Mexican contemporary artist based in Utah, graduated from Utah Tech University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Studio Art. As a painter, Zaida’s artistic expression encompasses a diverse range of styles. Her work includes abstract portraits that incorporate flowers.
Through her art, Zaida seeks to capture the beauty of her subjects. Her abstract portraits are a unique interpretation of her subjects’ inner and outer beauty, infused with bold and vibrant colors that evoke a sense of energy and vitality. The presence of flowers within Zaida’s portraits holds a profound symbolism, enriching her work with layers of meaning.
Zaida’s artwork has been exhibited in various galleries in St. George and Salt Lake City. Her paintings and drawings have won several awards, including the Dean’s Choice Award, 10th place in the Utah Senate Visual Arts Competition, and 1st place in the Latin Arte contest by Artes de Mexico en Utah. Zaida has also created commissioned artwork.
Find more information on this website.
About the St. George Art Museum
Located at 47 East 200 North across from the Main Street U.S. Post Office in historic downtown St. George, the former sugar beet seed storage facility was transformed into an elegant showcase for art in 1997. With 1,400 pieces in the permanent collection, the St. George Art Museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The museum is donation-based. Donations directly support education and operating expenses of the museum.