ALTAR DE MUERTOS: Una ofrenda a la memoria de Octavio Paz

Coral Gables Museum, in collaboration with the Mexican Cultural Institute in Miami, presents its first traditional Día de Muertos altar, honoring Mexican poet Octavio Paz, recipient of the Nobel Prize in Literature. Created by Mexican artists Karla Kantorovich and Monica Czukerberg, “Una ofrenda a la memoria de Octavio Paz” explores the traditions of remembrance through poetry, art, and Mexican cultural practices.

The installation draws inspiration from Paz’s poem “Piedra de Sol” (“Sunstone”), incorporating its themes of time, memory, and the cycles of life and death. Traditional Día de Muertos elements, including marigolds, candles, copal incense, papel picado, photographs, and symbolic offerings, are displayed alongside handcrafted clay objects, naturally dyed textiles, altered books, and suspended pages featuring fragments of poetry.

The program includes an opening presentation by the artists, Mexican food and pan de muerto tastings, live guitar music, and a creative workshop inspired by Día de Muertos imagery. Families and visitors of all ages can learn about the holiday’s traditions and their significance in Mexican culture.

The presentation also acknowledges Natacha Casafus for her collaboration and Nilo Verano for the musical composition.