It's been several years since I took part in Dia de los Muertos festivities. I was a regular attendee, participating group show artist and vendor at Dia de los Muertos celebrations hosted by Los Angeles Photography Center and Self Help Graphics dating back to the early years when the Chicano art movement embraced the tradition. Over the years the commercialization and mass appeal to turn Dia de los Muertos into another Drinko de Mayo was a major turn off. Having to explain repeatedly that Dia de los Muertos is not Mexican Halloween and seeing how a once grassroots celebration had become over popularized I knew I needed to let it die, and I did...for years. Instead of heading out I would paint my calaca face and sit at home reflecting on loved ones and not so loved ones who have passed. As the years add up so do the numbers of those I've known who are no longer here. Not having a car makes getting around difficult and very few opportunities arise for taking public transportati
Site Scene in L.A.
Random thoughts and observations from a native Angelena's perspective. Linda Gamboa's words and snapshots.