There are offerings for Palestine at this year’s SOMArts Día de Los Muertos show

The annual month-long Día de Los Muertos exhibition at SOMArts always brings stunning artwork, poetic themes and fabulous activations – nothing less can be expected from an event created by the late, beloved Mission artist and activist René Yañez. Now his son Rio is curator of the tradition, which commissions local artists to create stunning and often haunting altars for the dead that connect them to the living.

This year, Rio and co-curator Bridgètt Rex presented an exhibition of contemporary art installations and altars that “honor, mourn and commemorate Palestinian livelihoods and culture” in the wake of Israel’s ongoing US-backed decimation of Gaza and invasion of the West Bank. Bearing Witness: An Expression of Love, Solidarity and Justice for the Palestinian People (until November 3rd). The exhibition “embodies the spirit of René Yañez, who ensured that each exhibition reflects the current state of the world and honors those lost to grave acts of violence.”

Heavy topics, but ultimately topics like global solidarity, creation as resistance and traditional commemoration bear witness also shows altars dedicated to deceased relatives – and connects us all. I spoke to Rio and Bridgètt about the project via email.

48 HILLS Thank you for taking the time to answer these questions. The show looks spectacular. This show has been an unmissable event for so many years. Can you tell me how this year’s theme was decided?

BRIDGÈTT REX Thank you for taking the time to interview us! We appreciate the support. This year’s theme is a response to the ongoing genocide against the Palestinian people. As curators, we have the opportunity to initiate dialogue while creating a safe space for artists to express themselves through their creations.

RIO YAÑEZ Sometimes the theme of the annual exhibition is influenced by an underlying or creative mood. This year, my co-curator Bridgètt and I were struck by a sense of urgency and collective care about what is happening in Palestine. Other events that have shaped the exhibit in the past include Hurricane Katrina and the Pulse Nightclub shooting. The Palestinian genocide is something that we felt it was our duty not to look away and to address as directly as possible.

48 HILLS How do you think the show will resonate with local viewers and inspire people to join the call for global solidarity with the Palestinian struggle?

RIO YAÑEZ What is happening in Palestine is profound and has deeply affected so many of us. As Mexican-Americans, we wanted to create a space that embodies one of our most beautiful cultural, spiritual, and creative practices and offer all of us the opportunity to bear witness to what is happening in Palestine. The altars and installations in the exhibition are a community gathering place for celebration, mourning and understanding for the lives lost there. I think it will really inspire those who visit the exhibition.

BRIDGÈTT REX I believe that when we as curators select our artists/participants, the next step is to map the space and tell a visual story through the works of the selected artists. This curatorial practice takes into account many factors such as accessibility, cultural significance, diversity and physical safety. At the time of the exhibition opening, we leave it to the viewers to come up with their reactions, feelings and thoughts. Broadly speaking, my curatorial practice focuses on making people feel safe and able to feel their emotions should they arise. The art contained within is intended to connect us, start dialogues and much more. There are many roles in the revolution. I hope that people will be inspired to take action and join the call for global solidarity.

48 HILLS Which of the pieces on display demonstrate the richness and urgency of the theme? I’m sure they are all wonderful!

BRIDGÈTT REX One particular work I would like to highlight is the work by Palestinian artist Ren Allathkani entitled “Within Our Lifetime.” Here is Ren’s description of the piece from her application: “Gaza Airport remained a symbol of freedom of travel and flight even after its recent demolition – its architectural form serves as a framework for the painting.” This piece celebrates Palestinian life by creating a Palestinian woman harvesting freely and children playing on the beach in Gaza.”

RIO YAÑEZ One particular altar that I think really embodies the exhibition is by artist Dania Cabello. Her altar honors Palestinian children and their resilience. Dania creates a structure using hundreds of donated soccer balls that honors her strength in her ability to play even in the face of violence and death. It’s an incredible undertaking by Dania as an artist and I can’t wait for everyone to see it.

DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS 2024: Bear witness through November 3rd at SOMArts, SF. More information here.