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DIA seeks creative ofrenda designs for Día de Muertos exhibition: what to know

Submission deadline is June 15

DIA looks for submissions for the 13th Annual Ofrendas: Celebrating el Día de Muertos. (Photo by Detroit Institute of Arts)

DETROIT – Do you think you have what it takes to create an ofrenda?

The Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) is teaming up with the Consulate of Mexico in Detroit, Southwest Detroit Business Association and the Mexicantown Community Development Corporation (CD), for its 13th Annual Ofrendas: Celebrating el Dia de Muertos. They’re looking for submissions.

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“Each year, Ofrendas: Celebrating el Dia de Muertos offers a significant platform for storytelling, remembrance, and artistic expression,” said Julie McFarland, executive director of public affairs and community engagement at the DIA, in a news release.

This exhibit not only educates attendees about ofrendas and Mexico’s Day of the Dead but also invites individuals and groups to engage in this cherished Mexican tradition that honors and remembers those who have passed away.

The submission deadline is June 15.

Participants interested in this year’s exhibition are encouraged to submit a proposed design for an ofrenda altar. Proposals should clearly demonstrate artistic intent, creative merit, and alignment with the values and characteristics of the Día de Muertos tradition.

Artists and community members wishing to participate in this year’s exhibit must submit their proposals through a submission form by June 15. The application includes detailed guidelines and is available in both English and Spanish. A committee of local community members and DIA staff will review the proposals. Selected Ofrenda artists will be notified in July.

Important Dates:

  • June 15: Submission deadline.
  • July: Ofrenda selections are made and artists are notified.
  • Week of September 15: Installation of ofrendas at the DIA.
  • September 27: Opening of the exhibition.
  • November 2: Closing of the exhibition with an artist talk and reception.

Each selected artist or group will receive a $500 stipend to support their participation.

More information can be found here.


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