Downtown Tyler came alive with rich colors and intricate art to celebrate Caldwell Arts Academy’s sixth annual Dia de los Muertos with the entire community.
Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a cherished Mexican holiday dedicated to honoring and celebrating loved ones who have passed away. Families gather to remember those who have touched their lives, and the holiday is marked by colorful, intricate altars called ofrendas. These ofrendas are decorated with photos, flowers, candles, and meaningful personal items. For this event, students, staff, and community members shared pictures of their loved ones for the ofrenda, adding a personal touch that brings a deeper meaning for all attendees.
This year, the ofrenda and other Dia de los Muertos student-made art was the center of attention in Plaza Tower, thanks to Caldwell Arts Academy’s partnership with the City of Tyler.
"We love how Day of the Dead allows our students to explore new artistry and embrace the spirit of togetherness that this occasion embodies,” Caldwell art teacher Jennifer Vaughn said. “Our collaboration with the City of Tyler makes it even more meaningful, bringing our community closer and providing our students with a unique opportunity to share their creative expression with a wider audience.”
Students from kindergarten through eighth grade proudly displayed mixed media artwork that adorned the gallery walls while the Caldwell Mariachi Band delighted the attendees with traditional songs.
“The City of Tyler and the Main Street Department have worked with Caldwell Arts Academy on several projects, and we have seen great success in connecting the community through shared experiences,” Main Street Director Amber Varona said. “As the City continues to implement and support revitalization efforts in downtown, community events and partnerships such as these help create downtown as a destination for the community and visitors. Through these efforts, we see the opportunity to foster community engagement and enhance cultural experiences.”
“Working with the city has allowed us to deepen our connection to this rich tradition, celebrating cultural heritage while fostering unity,” added Vaugh. “Through this partnership, we not only honor the Day of the Dead but also build bridges across generations and backgrounds, creating a memorable experience that resonates with the entire community.”
In addition to the partnership with the City of Tyler, Caldwell Arts Academy collaborated with several local Hispanic-owned businesses and organizations for performances on the square and its popular artisan market, making this the largest event yet.
For more information, contact Jennifer Hines at Jennifer.Hines@TylerISD.org.