Monumental Catrinas of Puebla, Mexico, in Times Square

Starting this Saturday, six catrinas look impressive and colorful in the heart of Times Square. They are the protagonists of the exhibition Catrina Monumental Atlixquense and Las Cuatro Catrinas Monumentales, pieces that for the first time left Puebla, Mexico to celebrate the Day of the Dead here in New York.

During the opening of the expo, several elected officials and community leaders shouted ‘long live Mexico’ and ‘long live the migrant population’, reiterating the importance of the influence of Mexicans on the culture of our city.

“For Mexicans, it is an ancient tradition that in its first vestige is found 4000 years ago with the Olmecs, to pay tribute and bring an offering to those who have already left, a way of saying – not in mockery, attention – with joy and joy On November 1 and 2, in our worldview, those who left before return,” said Jorge Islas, Consul General of Mexico in NY.

The exhibition is a cooperation between the government of Puebla, the city of New York, the Mexican Consulate and organizations such as Mi Casa es Puebla to honor the Day of the Dead celebration that is part of the traditions not only of Mexico but of other Latin American countries. .

The catrinas measure between 14 and 16 feet high, are made of cardboard and steel and were carved as well as painted by hand by various artisans in Puebla.

“These two catrinas that we have brought, the Charro Negro and the Diablito, are part of a collection of a concept that we have generated in our administration called Valle de Catrinas. And we are very proud to say that they have invited twelve of us to come to New York and for us it is to pay tribute to our brothers who are here, to tell them that we do not forget them, that they are still in our hearts,” said Ariadna Ayala. Camarillo, municipal president of Atlixco.

And the event also featured guests who traveled especially from Mexico to share their culture.

“I am wearing our charrería gala dress and, of course, I put Mexico on my skin with the Day of the Dead. “This is the deepest and most beautiful tradition of our Mexico because the Day of the Dead offering that we put in our homes is a ritual of love, remembering our loved ones and paying tribute to them we are filled with gratitude and filled with love,” he said. Charro González.

And the exhibition can be enjoyed by New Yorkers and visitors to our city until November 2, when there will be a great Day of the Dead celebration in Times Square.