Oakland has welcomed a 34-foot La Catrina sculpture from Mexico, with city officials, artists and community members gathering at Fruitvale Transit Village ahead of the area’s DÃa de los Muertos celebrations.
The monumental figure was unveiled on Thursday, October 1, as part of the city’s Hispanic Heritage Month programme. It will remain on display throughout October before taking centre stage at Oakland’s 31st annual DÃa de los Muertos festival on November 1.
Handcrafted by artisans in Mexico City, the sculpture was commissioned through a partnership involving The Unity Council, Visit Oakland, the City of Oakland, the Mexican Consulate and cultural leaders in Mexico.
The welcome ceremony included a ceremonial blessing, folklórico dancing, mariachi music and performances by TURF Inc dancers. Mayor Barbara Lee was also due to offer remarks at the event.
La Catrina is positioned beside Fruitvale BART station, where it can be viewed around the clock. Organisers have planned further community events in the district during October as Oakland builds towards its DÃa de los Muertos celebration.
The arrival is intended to highlight the cultural links between Oakland and Mexico, while recognising the traditions and generations of Latino families who have helped shape the Fruitvale community.
