A community-driven project at Burton Barr Central Library is honoring lost loved ones through colorful shadow boxes known as nichos, as part of the library’s Día de los Muertos celebration.
Unique Tributes to Loved Ones
Community members are creating and contributing nichos, which honor individuals ranging from family members to celebrities who have passed away. According to organizers, these shadow boxes serve as personal tributes during the observance of Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, a tradition focused on remembering those who have died.
Kristl Chavez, a Web Content Librarian with Phoenix Public Library, noted that each nicho is unique, reflecting the personal stories of the creators. Participants have the freedom to personalize their creations, ensuring that they reflect their individual experiences and connections.
Engaging the Community
In addition to creating nichos, visitors can contribute to a community altar by sharing memories or writing messages in honor of someone special. They are also encouraged to bring wallet-size photocopies of their loved ones to display on a photo wall, further enhancing the personal connection to the exhibit.
The exhibit features a scavenger hunt that guides visitors through various displays in the library, providing an interactive way to engage with the Día de los Muertos tradition. Chavez emphasized that the goal of the nicho project is to represent the individuals being honored.
Exhibit Details
The nicho display is located on the second floor of Burton Barr Central Library, near the Arizona Room, and will be available for viewing until November 6. Visitors are invited to explore the diverse community stories on display and reflect on their own memories of loved ones.
Source: City of Phoenix
