GREVIC ALVARADO

East Yard and the Mexican embassy are currently hosting a photography exhibition titled Death on the Skin by multidisciplinary Mexican artist Mauricio Silerio.

The three-week exhibition opened on February 26 with a private reception, but is open to the public at East Yard, Joki One Studio, Prince Street, Arima.

[caption id="attachment_1068374" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Jeniece Scott councillor for Calvary and Mexican ambassador Victor Hugo Morales toast at the opening of the Death on the Skin photography exhibition at East Yard - Joki One, Prince St, Arima, on February 26. - GREVIC ALVARADO[/caption]

Founder of East Yard Kevon Gareth Foderingham said, “Through our East Yard exhibits initiative, we are leaning heavily on the concept of art as a powerful medium to foster cross-cultural collaboration, transcending linguistic limitations and social barriers to create connections at a deep level.”

Foderingham said this is the first of a series of similar exhibitions that will be held in the coming months in collaboration with local international partners to share their culture with the burgesses of Arima and environs.

[caption id="attachment_1068373" align="alignnone" width="1024"] The ambassador of Mexico Victor Hugo Morales explains to those present the importance of the celebration of the Day of the Dead in his country through the photos of the Mexican artist Mauricio Silerio in the exhibition Death on the Skin at East Yard's - Joki One in Prince St , Arima last Monday, February 26. - GREVIC ALVARADO[/caption]

“We thank the Mexican ambassador and his team for leading the way,” he said.

The exhibition is part of a series of activities carried out by the embassy to show the public its traditional celebration for the Day of the Dead.

Death in the Skin shows 15 photographs by Silerio. He works with ethereal concepts and uses techniques such as painting, drawing, printmaking, sculpture, photography, photo manipulation and digital art. He has exhibited in more than 30 countries.

[caption id="attachment_1068372" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Mexican artist Mauricio Silerio has 15 pieces on display at East Yard - Joki One in Prince St, Arima until March 16. - GREVIC ALVARADO[/caption]

Mexican ambassador Victor Hugo Morales thanked the East Yard team for its interest in showing the cultural traditions of Mexico.

“The celebration of the Day of the Dead transcends religious and family elements every day to become a national celebration, which strengthens the spirit of national unity and generates identity,” he said.

Morales compared this celebration in importance to the TT Carnival.

[caption id="attachment_1068371" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Jamie Philbert, founder of Art on Purpose and executive director of Bois Academy, presents a traditional Mexican dance at the opening of the photography exhibition at East Yard. - GREVIC ALVARADO[/caption]

“Both are originally religious traditions (and) have become part of our traditions, our culture, strengths and our identities.