Children’s Librarian Kellie Madis (right) introduces participants Aiman Saleh (left) and Najm Suwaileh to Mexican Day of the Dead sugar skulls, using plastic foam skulls and markers to decorate them Nov. 2 at the Melvindale Public Library.
Karina Barrera, 12, decorates her Day of the Dead sugar skull, made of plastic foam, Nov. 2 at the Melvindale Public Library.
By SUE SUCHYTA
Sunday Times Newspapers
MELVINDALE – Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, was recognized Nov. 2 at the city’s public library as Children’s Librarian Kellie Madis introduced a sugar skull decorating craft.
Using plastic foam skulls and markers, with book illustrations for inspiration, participants gave their imagination free rein as they created their own version of the colorful craft.
The holiday, traditionally celebrated Nov. 1 and 2, is sometimes celebrated Oct. 31 or Nov. 6, depending on local custom.
During the Day of the Dead, family and friends remember people who have passed on, sometimes telling amusing stories about the late people’s lives.
Madis said the library staff tries to do something every month that focuses on seasonal events.
“Just to offer a variety for the people who are in the community,” she said. “Something for everyone.”
Aiman Saleh decorates a Mexican Day of the Dead sugar skull using a plastic foam skull and markers Nov. 2 at the Melvindale Public Library.
Participant Karina Barrera, 12, said she likes doing the crafts that the library staff offers.
Sianna Contreras, 5, was busy decorating a plastic foam skull with pink, purple and blue, which she said were her favorite colors.
She said her skull was more friendly than scary.
“I like to color all the time because I’m a little artist,” Contreras said. “I know how to draw with anything.”
Contreras’ father, Stephan Kent, said he felt it was important to bring his daughter to the library so she can learn how to read and be book smart.
Tiffiny Holladay, who was with Kent, said Contreras loves art and is good at it.
“When we saw this on the event page, we thought this would be a good thing for her to come and do,” she said.
The next craft activity, at 2 p.m. Nov. 23, is a dreamcatcher craft for ages 7 and older.
For more information about the Melvindale Public Library, go to Melvindale.lib.mi.us.
Sianna Contreras, 5, decorates her Day of the Dead sugar skull, made of plastic foam, Nov. 2 at the Melvindale Public Library.
A participant decorates his Day of the Dead sugar skull, made of plastic foam, while his sister looks at a book for decorating ideas Nov. 2 at the Melvindale Public Library.