"Dia de los Muertos is a traditional Meso-American holiday dedicated to the ancestors; it honors both death and the cycle of life. In Mexico, neighbors gather in local cemeteries to share food, music, and fun with their extended community, both living and departed. The celebration acknowledges that we still have a relationship with our ancestors and loved ones that have passed away. In San Francisco, Day of the Dead has been celebrated since the early 70s with art, music, performances and a walking procession, which help us contemplate our existence and mortality -- a moment to remember deceased friends and family, and our connections beyond our immediate concerns."
-I took the following photographs at the Mission district of San Francisco as well as at the Mission Cultural center, where an altar installation was held at the beginning of November. In my culture when it comes to the dearly departed it's all somber black and sometimes crying.. Here I was just hypnotized by the beauty and the exuberance... A woman who gave me sweet tea and bread told me on this day I am supposed to be happy. This is what I red afterwards and made me change my outlook entirely: "Don't just cry mournfully over the individuals, dreams and influences that have helped make you what you are. Dance for them; sing for them; honor them; leap into the air and kiss the sky for them." It was almost wonderful..
