(Above: Eileen Fisher’s En tus Brazos, in English In Your Arms, is an example of artwork celebrating Día de los Muertos/Day of the Dead at the Maude Kerns Art Center.)

By Randi Bjornstad

True, the Central American Día de los Muertos holiday doesn’t officially happen until Nov. 1-2 (corresponding to the North American All Saints Day), but it has become an extended celebration not only south of the border but at the Maude Kerns Art Center in Eugene.

So much so that this not only is the 32nd annual observance of the holiday at Maude Kerns, but it has expanded through the years to feature an exhibit of artwork by 29 artists from three states, five ofrendas (altars honoring the dead) along with a community altar, and a Day of the Dead gift shop featuring authentic Mexican crafts, curated by Suzanne Algara of Buganvilla Imports.

The artwork on display focuses on the Day of the Dead holiday, which began with ancient Aztec harvest rituals and has morphed to include the Roman Catholic observance of the saints.

The show and activities at the Maude Kerns Art Center begin on Friday, Oct. 17, with a Fiesta Reception from 5-8 p.m., featuring food and entertainment including music by the community group El Taller de Son Jarocho and traditional dancing by Ballet Folklórico Colibri.

The art exhibit includes a wide variety of works by many local artists and will be on display through Nov. 7. Several of the creations — from quilts to altars to digital art — have been made to honor the artists’ own deceased family members.

There also will be special activities to coincide with the 2025 Día de los Muertos exhibit, including:

  • Free Family Fun Day — 1 p.m to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Nov.1, featuring art activities, storytelling, and games.
  • Art Center Tours — led by gallery guides who introduce K-12 students and other small groups to the artwork, altars, and culture of the holiday, by reservation through the center by calling 541-345-1571.

Día de los Muertos at the Maude Kerns Art Center 

When: Oct. 17 to Nov. 7, 2025

Where: 1910 E. 15th Ave., Eugene (corner of 15th and Villard streets)

Regular gallery hours: 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday during exhibits

Information: mkartcenter.org or 541-345-1571

 

Ballet Folklórico will dance during the  Día de los Muertos opening celebration on Oct. 27 at the Maude Kerns Art Center.