Sugar Skull-Making Workshop Teaches Centuries-Old Tradition

AUSTIN, TX — The sugar skull is synonymous with Dia de los Muertos and is representative of a departed soul, where the name is placed on the forehead and left as an "ofrenda" or "offering" on an altar or gravestone to honor the spirit's return on the special day. The centuries-old tradition of sugar skull-making finds its origins in Mexico, after Italian missionaries who used them to decorate altars introduced them to the new world in the 17th century. Sugar was abundant in Mexico, and before long sugar skulls became a common element of the Day of the Dead celebration.

Sugar skull-making is labor-intensive and represents the folk art distinguished by it colors and elaborate adornment, and showcases the artisans vibrant craftsmanship that is an emblematic element of the holiday. To commemorate the art and tradition of Dia de los Muertos, the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center (ESB-MACC) invites all to learn to make sugar skulls with its Bella Muerte, Dulce Vida: Sugar Skull workshops held each Saturday in October.

The workshops will let guests learn about the history and art of sugar skull-making and experience hands-on opportunities to create your own. The workshop is open to adults and children ages 4 and over and is a wonderful chance to learn about the significance of Dia de los Muertos. For more information, please visit the ESB-MACC website or email lori.navarrete@austintexas.gov or call 512-974-3785.

EVENT DETAILS:

Bella Muerte, Dulce Vida: Sugar Skull Workshop

Saturday, Oct. 12 (and each Saturday in October) from 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m

EMMA S. BARRIENTOS MEXICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER

600 River Street, Austin, TX 78701