Observing Dia de los Muertos traditions at Sonoma Community Center

Sonoma Community Center this month continues its annual tradition of observing Dia de los Muertos with cultural-based art classes, an online art exhibit, and an outdoor Public Altar.

The art of Diego Ross, whose work features intricate, colorful masks and woodcuts featured in, is online through  October, with the option to reserve a time to visit Gallery 212 in person.

Local favorite and Mexican-born artist Ernesto Hernandez-Olmos returns to teach the history and art of Altar Making, Oct 24.  “I find pride in the fact these classes are truly affordable to everyone, and that these two instructors go beyond the crafting to also teach the historical knowledge of how the craft evolved to what it is today,” said Eric Jackson, the Center’s Creative Programs Manager.

Following tradition, the Center will erect its 12-foot Public Altar, designed by local sculptor Jim Callahan, at the end of October to be decorated in lights, golden butterflies, and portraits of Sonoma Valley’s passed loved ones and lost “heroes.” The striking and poignant sculpture will occupy the garden area in front of the Center, at 276 E. Napa St.

The community is invited to participate in the celebration of those who have passed.  Anyone who would like to contribute to the altar’s portraits can do so by submitting a scanned photograph, dates of the person’s birth and death, as well as a brief description of the person’s life and/or contributions to the Sonoma Community Center.

Photographs submitted by the deadline of October 14 will be included in the installation of the altar.  Photos can be addressed to “Sonoma Community Center / Public Altar, ℅ Eric Jackson” and mailed to 276 East Napa St., Sonoma, CA 95476.  High-resolution photos may also be submitted online. Sonomacommunitycenter.org.