Special ‘Almas Creativas’ Exhibit at the Briscoe

As San Antonio prepares to commemorate Día de los Muertos, the Briscoe Western Art Museum is sharing a unique collection of Huichol art, exhibiting more than 18 artworks handcrafted in celebration of the Day of the Dead.

Almas Creativas: A Tribute to Mexican Huichol Art is a pop-up exhibit co-hosted with Day of the Dead San Antonio, the new citywide annual celebration of Día de los Muertos. Almas Creativas will be open to the public through Nov. 8.

The works on display represent the intricate craftsmanship and talents of the Huichol people, descendants of the Aztec who live in the mountains of the Mexican states of Jalisco and Nayarit. Each piece in the collection was handcrafted bead by bead by Huichol artisans, with each piece featuring more than two million beads.

Known around the world for its vibrant color and intricate detail, the artwork of the Huichol tribe reflects a reverent and symbiotic relationship with nature. The cultural traditions weave together the ancient symbology of the art with the visionary experiences of each artisan.

The Almas Creativas exhibit includes a series of giant calaveras, the smiling skulls that are synonymous with Día de los Muertos, as well as catrinas. One of the strongest and most recognizable symbols of Day of the Dead celebrations, the happy female skeletons featured in the exhibit include artist Frida Kahlo and beloved Mexican actress María Felíx.

“Almas Creativas tells a unique story, spotlighting the work of an indigenous people interwoven into the culture and rich traditions that are the foundation of Día de los Muertos,” said Michael Duchemin, President and CEO of the Briscoe Western Art Museum.

“The Briscoe’s exhibits and collections bring vibrant stories to life. We’re honored to share the artistry of the Huichol people and celebrate Day of the Dead.”

Almas Creativas is free with museum admission and will be on display during regular museum hours, as well as during extended hours in honor of Day of the Dead San Antonio’s “Catrinas on the River Parade” on Friday, Nov. 1. The museum will also host a day of special activities on Saturday, Nov. 2, coinciding with the Day of the Dead San Antonio festival at La Villita.

“The Briscoe Western Art Museum highlights stories of the American West, so much of which has roots in South Texas and Mexico,” said Javier Ruiz-Galindo, founder and CEO of Day of the Dead San Antonio. “We are honored to have the story of Day of the Dead and the Huichol people included in a museum that celebrates, understands and appreciates that history.”

Special Community Events

As part of its celebration of Day of the Dead San Antonio, the Briscoe will host a special viewing party for the Catrinas on the River Parade, Friday, Nov. 1, 6:00-9:00 p.m., that includes both access to the museum to see the Almas Creativas exhibit and admission to the Day of the Dead San Antonio Festival at La Villita. The museum will offer extended hours to the public the night of the parade as well, remaining open until 9:00 p.m.

On Saturday, Nov. 2, the museum will celebrate Almas Creativas with special children’s activities 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. Festival attendees also receive half-price admission to the Briscoe during the festival, Friday-Sunday, Nov. 1-3, by showing their Day of the Dead San Antonio festival ticket to the admissions desk. Click here for ticketing information.

Open daily, admission to The Briscoe Western Art Museum is free for children 12 and under, as well as active duty members of the military and up to four members of their family. Regular museum admission is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and students, and $5 for retired military, first responders, educators, fireman and police officers. The museum offers extended hours and free admission every Tuesday from 4:00 to 9:00 p.m.