The annual monthlong Día de Los Muertos show at SOMArts always brings stunning artwork, poetic themes, and fabulous activations—nothing less could be expected from an event launched by late, beloved Mission artist-activist René Yañez. Now, his son Rio is a curator of the tradition, which commissions local artists to create eye-popping and often immersive altars to the dead that connect them to the living.
This year, Rio and co-curator Bridgètt Rex have manifested a show of contemporary art installations and altars that “honor, mourn, and remember Palestinian livelihood and culture” in the wake of Israel’s ongoing US-supported decimation of Gaza and invasion of the West Bank. Bearing Witness: An Expression of Love, Solidarity, and Justice for the People of Palestine (through November 8) “embodies the spirit of René Yañez, who ensured that each show reflected the current state of the world and honored those lost to profound acts of violence.”
Heavy themes, but ultimately ones of global solidarity, creation as resistance, and traditional commemoration, as Bearing Witness also showcases altars dedicated to personal loved ones who have passed—again, connecting us all. I spoke with Rio and Bridgètt over email about the project.
48 HILLS Thanks so much for taking the time to answer these questions. The show looks spectacular. This show has been an essential event for so many years, can you tell me how this year’s theme was decided?
BRIDGÈTT REX Thanks for taking the time to interview us! We appreciate the support. This year’s theme is a response to the ongoing genocide of the Palestinian people. As curators, we have the opportunity to prompt dialogue and also create a safe space for artists to express themselves through their creations.
RIO YAÑEZ Sometimes the theme of each year’s exhibit is influenced by an undercurrent or creative sentiment. This year my co-curator Bridgètt and I were compelled by a sense of urgency and collective care by 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 we had a responsibility to not look away from and take on as directly as possible.
48 HILLS How do you feel 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 grasped so many of us on a deep level. As Mexican-Americans, we wanted to create a space that embodies one of our most beautiful cultural, spiritual, and creative practices and have it be a way for us all to bear witness to what is happening in Palestine. The altars and installations in the exhibit are a community gathering place for celebration, mourning, and understanding of lives that have been lost there. I think it will really inspire those who come to view the exhibit.
BRIDGÈTT REX I believe that when we as curators choose our artists/participants, the next step is to map out the space and tell a visual story using the pieces from the chosen artists. This curatorial practice takes many factors into account such as accessibility, cultural significance, diversity, and physical safety. At the point of the exhibition opening, we leave it to the viewers to come to their reactions, feelings, and thoughts. Overall, my curatorial practice centers on people feeling safe to feel their range of emotions should they arise. The art included is meant to connect us, to begin dialogues and so much more. There are many roles in the revolution. I do hope people are inspired to take action and join the call for global solidarity.
48 HILLS What are a couple of the pieces on display that show the richness and urgency of the theme? I’m sure they are all wonderful!
BRIDGÈTT REX One specific piece that I’d like to highlight is Palestinian artist Ren Allathkani’s piece titled “Within Our Lifetime.” Here is Ren’s description of the piece from her application, “The Gaza airport remained as a symbol of freedom of travel and flight, even after it’s recent demolition—it’s architectural shape is used as the frame for the painting. This piece celebrates the Palestinian life, by showing a Palestinian woman harvesting freely, and children playing on Gaza beach.”
RIO YAÑEZ One specific altar that I feel really embodies the exhibit is by artist Dania Cabello. Her altar honors Palestinian children and their resilience. Dania is creating a structure comprised of hundreds of donated soccer balls that celebrates their strength in their ability to play when even facing violence and death itself. It is an incredible undertaking by Dania as an artist and I can’t wait for everyone to see it.
DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS 2024: BEARING WITNESS through November 8 at SOMArts, SF. More info here.
