Instructed by Elizabeth Shrader

Participants will make sugar skulls using prepared paste and molds, then decorate them with colored icing, foil and jewels. Participants may also fold tissue paper flower garlands and learn about the ephemeral art of papel picado.

Join us for this fun and educational workshop! Learn about the Mexican synchronistic holiday of Día de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead), when ancient Aztec beliefs about honoring the dead combine with Catholic traditions about the veil between here and the hereafter.

Participants will have the opportunity to use their art to curate a community ofrenda, or altar, to honor those we have lost in years past. The altar will remain up at the Becket Arts Center through November 2nd to allow people to add to the display, with additional sugar skulls, photos of departed friends, family and pets, and mementos of what they enjoyed in life.

Other optional activity: Composing “calavera” poems, satirical or humorous odes to the dead (Best for adults)

About the Instructor Elizabeth Shrader: “I lived in Mexico for many years and have a deep reverence for this special holiday. I’ve made hundreds of sugar skulls and love sharing this folk art with others. When I relocated to the heart of DC’s Latino community, I organized these kinds of workshops for my neighborhood.”

No experience necessary, although participants can prepare by watching the animated film “Coco.”

‍ ‍Drop in or stay for the whole workshop! Refreshments and hot cocoa will be offered.

All Materials Provided ~ Ages 5 & Up.

Adult Price: $10.00 Youth Ages 5 - 17: FREE!

Pre-Registration Recommended Walk-Ins Welcome!