By Elena E. Robles
For over 20 years, the AAACNA Studies Center in the Dr. Martin Luther King Library in San José has played host to a spectacular Dia de Muertos ofrenda exhibit titled the “Art of Remembrance.”
The Center’s librarian and director Kathryn Blackmer Reyes commented that surrounding this remarkable display of over 20 altars and dozens of alebrijes and crafted miniatures, the loss earlier this year of the project’s coordinator and fund-developer Arlene Segun, is palpable.
Arlene’s daughter, Valerie Sagun, installed an ofrenda including a video on her mom’s 28 years overseeing the huge annual Calenda and Day of the Dead Festival that brought together a culturally diverse community to celebrate their loved ones and friends who have passed on. Arlene also was a drummer in the ensemble TABIA, and director of the San José Multicultural Artists’ Guild, the exhibit’s main sponsor through the years.
Also impacting the annual Dia de Muertos activities was the recent passing of philanthropist Alcario Castellanos, whose foundation was a significant funder of Hispanic educational and community programs.
Rita Herrera and her husband Joel, Chairman of the State G.I. Forum, installed a large ofrenda in his memory. Alcario was a long-time member of the local G.I. Forum and his wife Carmen worked for the San José City College administration.
Phillis Carrasco and Rick Moreno, who were significant “Art of Remembrance” installation artists since the first year and are now resting in peace, were honored with ofrendas created by family and friends. Pieces of their art remain part of a permanent DDLM collection in the AAACNA Studies Center, including the spectacular 20-foot Rey Calaca standing in the foyer of the library.
Children and adults find comfort and joy in the celebratory traditions of the Mexican holiday Día de Muertos. “Art of Remembrance” exhibits always welcome entries from professional artists, family groups, and community. For many, it is the first time.
Oscar Pimienta, whose children Jasmine and Max, are dancers with Folklórico Nacional Mexicano de Elena Robles, spent hours collaborating with other parents on a group altar. “This is new for our family,” he said. “I didn’t have it growing up and it feels good to share our family with my own kids; to learn more about our heritage.”
Art of Remembrance Ofrenda Exhibit will be open through November 4, 2025, in the AAACNA Studies Center, 5th Floor, of the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Library 150 E San Fernando St. San José
