Dia De Los Muertos Men's Shirt - Large

Día de los Muertos is a tradition close to my heart, reflecting the deep connection we have with our ancestors. This beautifully crafted piece, made in Michoacan by Hilda Lara represents that connection. This family is one of many artisans I work with in Mexico for Mexituras, a project I created to share and celebrate the rich art and culture of Mexico. "Mexi" represents Mexico, while "Turas" comes from "culturas," meaning cultures. 

Día de los Muertos is a beloved Mexican holiday dedicated to honoring our ancestors and loved ones who have passed away. We believe that their souls continue to live on after their bodies die. During this sacred time, we invite them back to visit the land of the living, and we welcome them with offerings on what we call the "ofrenda" or altar. Each element placed on the ofrenda holds deep significance and represents life's essential forces—Fire, Water, Air, and Earth:

Marigolds (Cempasuchitl) 🌼: These vibrant flowers guide the spirits to the altar, symbolizing the fragile nature of life.

Incense 💨: Used to purify and cleanse the space around the altar, creating a sacred environment for our ancestors' return.

Fire 🔥: Candles serve as guiding lights, each color representing different meanings and purposes for the spirits' journey.

Salt 🧂: This essential element protects the visiting souls from the corruptions and temptations of the earthly realm.

Food (Comida) 🍽: We prepare and offer our ancestors their favorite foods, which they cannot physically consume but absorb the energy and love from the meal. This includes the traditional Pan de Muertos.

Water 💧: A vital offering, water helps to strengthen the spirits for their return journey to the afterlife.

Photos 📸: Placing photographs of our ancestors on the Ofrenda ensures that they are invited and remembered during this time of celebration.

This shawl, hand-stitched by the daughters, mothers, and grandmothers of the Purépecha culture, is another example of ancestral knowledge passed down through generations. Every thread and stitch reflects a tradition kept alive through their hands, and each piece carries the pride of their heritage.

The collaboration with these artisans began when the Artisan Fair in Uruapan, a key income source for Michoacán's artisans, was canceled in 2020 due to the pandemic. Faced with the loss of this vital opportunity, they turned to online platforms to share their work and sustain their families. Today, 12 artisan families from seven different communities contribute their skills, growing the reach of this project and preserving Michoacán’s diverse textile techniques.

By purchasing this item, all proceeds go directly to supporting these artisans and helping Mexituras grow, extending its reach to showcase art from other regions of Mexico and Guatemala. Your support not only helps preserve our traditions but also fosters economic independence for the artisans who create these meaningful works.