Day of the Dead

These images were taken during the Day of the Dead celebrations in Zunil, and Quetzaltenango, largely indigenous communities in the southern highlands of Guatemala. In the weeks leading up to November 1st the cemetery is slowly transformed from rows of simple tombs to an incredibly lush, and vibrant sea of plant fronds, flowers and candles. Entire families spend days cleaning, painting, and finally decorating the tombs of their family members. By the end of their work the tombs are engulfed...
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These images were taken during the Day of the Dead celebrations in Zunil, and Quetzaltenango, largely indigenous communities in the southern highlands of Guatemala. In the weeks leading up to November 1st the cemetery is slowly transformed from rows of simple tombs to an incredibly lush, and vibrant sea of plant fronds, flowers and candles. Entire families spend days cleaning, painting, and finally decorating the tombs of their family members. By the end of their work the tombs are engulfed in the bright red leaves of Rooster's Tail, highlighted with countless votives, and wreaths of Chrysanthemums, Lilies and Poinsettia. Family members then begin holding vigils at the grave site, sharing meals together, remembering their loved ones, and receiving guests as they come to pay their respects. For some the moment is clearly sombre, but for others it's joyous, a chance to come together and celebrate family, both living and dead.
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