DĂa de los Muertos, which translates to Day of the Dead, is a Mexican celebration that honors the spirits of those that have passed, from family ancestors to loved ones that have died more recently. But itâs anything but morbid. The holiday, which takes place from November 1 through November 2, is about color, joy, and the celebration of life.
Often marked by parades and festivities at home, DĂa de los Muertos has its roots in Aztec beliefs. While it has evolved over time, due to Spanish colonization and modern popular culture, the crux of DĂa de los Muertos remains. The holiday is centered around the idea that the dead are not separate from the living, that death is an integral and important part of life.
To symbolize DĂa de los Muertos in nail art, Latinx nail artist Sigourney Nuñez has created a vibrant manicure, which represents both marigolds and calaveras (sugar skulls), two meaningful and renowned symbols of the holiday. And hereâs why.
DĂa de los Muertos marigolds
During DĂa de los Muertos, itâs believed that spirits come back to visit their families. To help guide them, families will often place orange Mexican marigolds on an ofrenda (an altar) in their home. Itâs thought that the scent and the bright color of the marigolds, believed by the Aztecs to be a sacred flower, will help to lead the spirits to the altar. Often, personal belongings or a photograph of the person who has passed are placed alongside the marigolds, and there are also traditional food items, including candied pumpkin, tamales, and calaveras (sugar skulls).
DĂa de los Muertos calaveras
Calaveras are arguably the most well-known symbol of DĂa de los Muertos, often depicted in costumes or face paint. They have been produced since the 15th century, but the symbol we see today is thought to have been inspired by the satirical work of JosĂ© Guadalupe Posada, a Mexican illustrator, who lived in the early 20th century. Skull imagery has been prominent in Mexican culture for centuries, from the Aztecs through colonization to now.
How to get DĂa de los Muertos nails
Hereâs how to get Nuñezâs striking, colorful, and detailed DĂa de los Muertos cruelty-free nail art look in six easy steps.
First, apply a layer of clear base coat
After the base coat has dried, apply a layer of color
On one nail, use a detail brush to draw a calaveras, using a dotting tool for the eyes
On another nail, use a dotting tool with deep orange and yellow to create a marigold
When your designs are dry, finish with a layer of top coat
Sit back and admire your handiwork!
Charlotte writes about sustainable beauty, food, travel, and culture. She has a bachelor’s degree in history and a postgraduate certificate in cultural heritage.
Source: Cdn.livekindly.co
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