Arts & Entertainment
Portland Style 'Day of the Dead' Exhibit Opens Today
The Guardino Gallery opens its 10th annual Portland style day-of-the-dead exhibit today. It's free to attend.
PORTLAND, OR- Founded in 1996 by Sal and Donna Guardino, the Guardino Gallery has been curating bizarre exhibits for the people of Northeast Portland to enjoy. This year marks the 10th anniversary of their Day of the Dead exhibit, a favorite among Portlanders. It opens today, September 29 and runs through October 25.
Day of the Dead, or Dia de Muertos, is a Mexican holiday dedicated to paying homage to ancestors. Traditionally, Day of the Dead is celebrated by gathering living family together; often times, gifts are left on the graves of the deceased: favorite flowers, food, beverage, etc.
"We have a lot of work. Everything from mosaics to blown glass to paintings to mixed media. There are 52 artists in this show, a lot of them bringing multiples, so this exhibit will be very crowded with incredible artwork," said Donna Guardino. "It's remembering the dead in a nicer, sweeter way."
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When questioned as to whether or not she herself was an artist, Donna Guardino pauses before making an honest recollection. "Once upon a time I was, but I transitioned to selling other people's art because it was easier." After ten years of curating in Portland, it seems she made the correct choice.
Dressing up for Guardino 'Day of the Dead' exhibit is common, so prepare your wackiest or spookiest ensemble ahead of time. Plain clothes are acceptable, but discouraged.
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In addition to the exhibit itself, there will also be a music tent with two local Portland musicians and a face painter. The exhibit is free to the public. You can visit the museum during its regular hours. Tuesday from 11 a.m. -5 p.m.; Wednesday–Saturday from 11 a.m. -6 p.m.; Sunday from 11 a.m. -4 p.m.; Closed on Monday.
Photo caption: Alicia Justus' “Untitled"; Photo courtesy of Guardina Gallery
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