Members of the CSUMB community are invited and encouraged to create small altars that will be placed and included on the main altar at the CSUMB Day of the Dead gathering on November 1. The function of the mini-altar is to honor and remember someone important to you who has passed on.

Begin with a small cardboard box (no larger than 12 inches in its largest dimension). The box can be decorated with paper using spray on adhesive, glitter, ribbons or Xeroxes of family images. Colorful tissue paper banners may be strung across the top. Placing a backdrop image inside the box will set the stage for the placement of the central image (framed or otherwise), the votive candle, a sugar skull and/or paper flower. The use of miniaturization to create a sense of the life of the deceased is also important. Local craft stores such as Beverly’s have many wonderful miniatures often in their scrapbooking section. The use of natural and organic materials is also in keeping this the transitory nature of the Day of the Dead celebration. Here are some suggestions for a step by step creation of your mini-altar:

1) Decorate interior and exterior of boxes with collage using spray adhesive or lightly glued materials. (Painting the boxes or using heavy gluing can dampen the box and cause warping) glitter and ribbon as well as stickers can also be used.

2) Attach paper banners across top of the box. Be sure the name of the loved one is also integrated into the design of the piece.

3) Place image of loved one with sugar skull, paper flower, candle and a small glass of water.

4) Add the miniature objects that reflect the life and tastes of the deceased.

5) Small fruits such as grapes or tiny plastic food offerings can also be added. Fruits are sometimes sprayed gold or silver to add richness to the altar.

6) Try to make a theme for the colors and materials you are using that reflects something about the life of the person being honored.

Your mini-altar should be dropped off to the University Center Ballroom on Friday, October 31, 2008 between 1pm and 7pm so that you can select your placement and arrange the mini-altar.

You may pick up your mini-altar at the conclusion of the Day of the Dead festivities on Saturday night, or on the following morning,