Ofelia Esparza is a renowned altarista (altar maker) and cultural preservationist, particularly known for her work with Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) traditions. She’s a National Heritage Fellow and has dedicated her life to preserving and teaching the traditional art of creating ofrendas (altars) for the Mexican holiday honoring deceased loved ones. If you saw the movie, COCO, you’ll have enjoyed her spiritual/cultural insights that were brought into the idea of the bridge between the dead and the living and the concept of “the three deaths.” I had wanted to interview her for this podcast all year, but even in her 90s, she is busier than me. So instead of trying to take her time this autumn season, I am going to share the conversation I recorded early this year. All I have is video now. Here is a clip.
Ofelia has a show coming up this weekend. I’ll be sharing more about that tomorrow as well. In the meantime, if you are in the LA area this week, put this special event on your calendar for Saturday. It will be epic. Angelenos, we are lucky to be here when she is.
More tomorrow.
xoxo
Allison
