See the Mexican folk-art sculptures on display around Rockefeller Center for Day of the Dead

October 25, 2021

All photos courtesy of Tishman Speyer

Rockefeller Center last week kicked off a nearly two-week celebration of Mexican culture and Día de Los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, with the installation of larger-than-life Mexican folk-art sculptures and other artworks around the plaza. As part of the campus-wide commemoration, see an 11-foot dragon and a 13.5-foot feathered jaguar, an exhibition of fashionably dressed skeleton figures, a Día de Los Muertos display altar, and a floral installation adorning the center’s iconic bronze statue Atlas.

As part of a partnership between the Consulate General of Mexico in New York, the Mexican Cultural Institute, and Rockefeller Center, “Mexico Week” started last Friday with the unveiling of the sculptures and skeleton figures.

The two alebrijes, which are brightly colored sculptures depicting fantastical creatures, were created by artist Ricardo Angeles of Oaxaca’s Atelier Jacobo and Maria Angeles.

Designed by Menchaca Studio, Arte Wixárika, the catrinas are elegant, colorful skeleton figures, considered the most recognizable symbol of modern Day of the Dead celebrations.

This Friday, a traditional ofrenda created by Tónico Visual and Sandra Perez will be installed and be on display through November 2. The altar will be dedicated to those who passed away from Covid-19. And New York-based Ovando floral design will adorn the iconic Atlas sculpture with a floral installation.

In addition to the colorful art, the event includes an open-air market with Mexican vendors from October 29 through October 31.

Taking place from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on the plaza, the market will feature artisans like La Contenta, La Newyorkina, La Providencia, South Philly Barbacoa, Casa Dragones, and more. Guests can learn about the art of sipping tequilas and personalize tequila bottles with calligraphy in honor of Day of the Dead.

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All photos courtesy of Tishman Speyer