Sugar Skulls and Day of the Dead

I have always been fascinated with Sugar Skulls and how colorful and decorative they are, I know it had something to do with the "Day of the Dead," which I never understood, so being the curious person I am, I did a little research. If I am going to draw something I have to know what it is I am drawing and if there is a deeper meaning.

"Day of the Dead" is held on November 1st and 2nd and is a day that family and friends gather to pray and remember their loved ones that have passed on and to help them on their spiritual journey.

So where did the "Sugar Skull" get its name? Well once again something I had to find out for myself. Sugar art was brought over by Italian missionaries in the 17th century and adopted by the people who quickly learned how to make sugar art. Personally I find them beautiful.

"Day of the Dead" is also celebrated on the same days as the Catholic holy days of "All Saints' Day" on Nov. 1st which is dedicated to the saints of the Church and "All Souls' Day" on Nov. 2nd which is dedicated to those who have died and have not reached heaven yet.

I guess when you think about it they are kind of similar in some ways, both traditions are dedicated to those who have passed.

I know there will be a time in my life that I will loose someone close to me, death will happen to all of us at some point. I know when my time comes I want my life to be celebrated not morned. I want my loved ones to pray for me on my spiritual journey to the next life.

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