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For Immediate Release
Learn How Traditional Sugar Skulls are
Created for "Day of the Dead"
Redwood City, CA - October 27, 2003
- As part of the traditional Mexican “Day of
the Dead” celebration, the Redwood City Public Library
has invited sugar skull artist Elizabeth McCarthy to demonstrate
the several steps involved in creating the traditional sugar
skulls, or “calaveras.” The presentation takes
place on Saturday November 1st at 2:30 pm, in front of the
main Library at 1044 Middlefield Road. Following the demonstration,
the artist’s hand-crafted sugar skulls will be available
for sale. This is a unique opportunity to observe this traditional
art form, and to purchase Mexican sugar skulls to celebrate
the “Day of the Dead.” This FREE program is sponsored
by the Friends of The Library, and is great for the whole
family.
Artist Elizabeth McCarthy, driven by her passion to grow
and to continue the traditions of Day of the Dead, has quickly
distinguished herself as one of the Bay Area’s leading
sugar skull producers. Her calaveras are offered in select
bay area stores, as well as at local festivals and special
events. Every sugar skull is hand-crafted by Ms. McCarthy
and bears the distinctive ‘signature’ unique to
her handiwork. Ms. McCarthy says, “It is so rewarding
to know that my calaveras are a part of so many families’
celebrations to honor their loved ones.” The Library
is fortunate to host this notable artist.
The “Day of the Dead” is a time when Mexican
families remember their deceased, and celebrate the continuity
of life. This is celebrated throughout Mexico and includes
many unique customs that often vary widely depending on the
region. Throughout all regions, common themes include colorful
decorations, lively reunions at family burial plots, and the
preparation and offerings of special foods. This holiday is
considered one of the most important holidays of the year
in Mexico, and although it is associated with the dead, it
is not a morbid, sad time, but a time of happiness, remembering,
and feasting.
The main Redwood City Public Library is located at 1044 Middlefield
Road. For more information about this and other library programs,
visit the library’s home page at www.rcpl.info
or call (650) 780-7026. The Redwood City Public Library sponsors
many free programs for children and adults, and helps our
community to “understand the past, prepare for the future,
and thrive in the present.” Visit Redwood City’s
main website at www.redwoodcity.org for information about
the City and its services, the community, recreation programs,
education, City government, and local business.
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Contact: Maria Kramer
Interim Library Director
(650) 780-7043
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