La Noche de los muertitos (The night of the dead)
In contrast to our western ways, in Mexico people not only live with faith in the afterlife, they also behave as if the dead were still with them. On the night of the 1st-2nd November, mourners and flowers flood the cemeteries, coffee or tequila is drunk, the deceased’s favourite meal is eaten, and music is played. The atmosphere is that of a party. There are also those who suffer, but it seems more important to remember the dead with joy. Many people set up altars in their homes and bedeck them with images of the loved ones who have passed away; in this way they are kept alive in their memories.
We know that times change and cultural influences modify traditions. During the Night of the Dead, Halloween blends with the celebration of a tradition that has its roots in pre-Colombian times; some children and youths go to the cemetery in costume and here, once more, Mexico reaffirms its status as the surrealist country par excellence.
I am a 42-year-old Spanish documentary photographer interested in the human condition and his relationship with the environment. I live between Barcelona (Spain) and Guanajauto (México). After working for a few years as an economist, my passion for knowing other cultures naturally led me to photography. I started my photographic career in 2002. When I began, I was mostly interested in denouncing injustices but now, more experienced, I realize I am principally focused in understanding the human condition. Why we do what we do, why we believe in what we believe. Thus, I am interested in the contradictions of the modern world, the legacy of the colonies and how cultural influences modify traditions.
Héctor Mediavilla
