L
A
CATRINA
History
Step into the world of La Catrina more than just a symbol, she’s the elegant skeleton with a message. Rooted in Mexican culture, La Catrina challenges social pretension, celebrates roots, and reminds us that in the end, all are equal. Through art, history, festivals, and modern interpretations, La Catrina remains a vibrant icon of life, death, identity, and artistry.
Origins & History
Learn how La Catrina began as a satirical image by José Guadalupe Posada around 1910, critiquing social status and colonial influence
Cultural Symbolism
From mockery to national icon; La Catrina represents Mexico’s complex relationship with class, death, and identity
Art & Imagery
Murals (like Diego Rivera’s Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in Alameda Park), papier-mâché figures, face-painting, costume, folk art, modern media
Celebrations & Traditions
How La Catrina features in Día de los Muertos: altars, processions, makeup, parades. Exploring how people celebrate, remember, and transform her image
Years Of Experience
Icon of Equality, Culture, and Tradition
La Catrina, first illustrated by José Guadalupe Posada around 1910, began as a satirical figure mocking the vanity of the wealthy who ignored their cultural roots. Later popularized in Diego Rivera’s famous mural Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in Alameda Park, she grew into a powerful symbol of equality in death — a reminder that no matter one’s social status, all share the same fate. Over time, La Catrina became central to Día de los Muertos, appearing in parades, altars, costumes, and makeup. Blending indigenous traditions with European influences, she stands today as an enduring icon of Mexican culture, inspiring art, fashion, and creativity around the world.
- Symbol of Equality
- Cultural Icon
- Artistic Inspiration
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Members
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Employes
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Messages
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Expert Team
Our Mission and Purpose
Preserve Cultural Heritage
We are dedicated to keeping the legacy of La Catrina alive, sharing her origins, symbolism, and evolution so that future generations can appreciate and connect with this powerful cultural icon.
Educate & Inspire
Through documentaries, interviews, and creative storytelling, we aim to deepen understanding of La Catrina’s role in Mexican culture while inspiring audiences to embrace art, history, and tradition.
Celebrate Art & Creativity
From murals and sculpture to face-painting and costume design, we showcase how La Catrina continues to inspire artists worldwide, highlighting both traditional and modern expressions.
Build Global Connections
La Catrina is more than a symbol of Mexico she resonates across cultures. We bring communities together by celebrating her presence in festivals, events, and artistic movements worldwide.
Why La Catrina Matters
La Catrina matters because she symbolizes equality in death, reminding us that social class disappears in the end. She preserves the fusion of indigenous beliefs and Mexican identity through art and tradition. She transforms mourning into celebration, giving joy and meaning to Día de los Muertos. And she continues to inspire creativity worldwide, standing as an enduring icon of culture, memory, and life.