Día de Muertos is a holiday that is celebrated in Mexico, many Central and South American countries, and within the United States. A joyous remembrance of the lives of family members and loved ones who have died, the holiday is a celebration of the cycle of life with ancient roots.
The Museum of Sonoma County is honored to present its 30th Annual Día de Muertos exhibition running from September 5, through November 29, 2026. Presented every year since 1996, the exhibition has become a local touchstone. Over the years, the exhibition has featured altars and artworks created by hundreds of different students, artists, altaristas, and community members, who have presented the powerful traditions of Day of the Dead in our community. To recognize the 30-year milestone, the exhibition will highlight the creations of many past participants and honor the founders of the local Día de Muertos exhibitions and celebrations.
This year’s exhibition is presented in the Museum’s old Post Office building. Artists featured in this year's exhibition include Liz Camino-Byers, Cristina Briano, Jesus Bravo, Ruben Guzman, Nathan Gomez, Maria de Los Angeles, Daniela Hernandez, Life on Art, and more.
Major features in this year’s exhibition include:
Artist Maria de los Angeles, presents a dress sculpture with Catrina mask. The work is a three-dimensional, hand-stitched construction of paintings, sculpture, drawings, quilting, and collage.
Altar by Jesus Bravo reflecting the ancient, indigenous origins of Day of the Dead. Bravo’s altar features elements of the original harvest related festivals that marked the early celebrations of the cycle of life among the Mexica. This altar also includes replicas of ancient musical instruments.
Altar by Liz Camino-Byers. A 7-foot tall, 10 foot wide 7-level, stepped altar, this impressive installation will feature Liz Camino-Byers’ remarkable collection of Mexican and Day of the Dead folk art. The collection, built over several decades, represents many aspects of Day of the Dead, as well as several different regional traditions of Mexico.
Installation by Nathan Gomez. Painter and graphic artist Nathan Gomez will present several original paintings that explore the visual legacy of Frida Kahlo and Catrina Calavera, the iconic lady of Day of the Dead.
Life on Art installation, featuring a 15-foot-wide, winged heart, papier-maché sculpture in the tradition of Cartonería.
