This deeply personal exhibition of student work is the result of a unique partnership among the MIA and Austin High School (Greater Minnesota), Thomas Edison High School (Minneapolis), El Colegio Charter School (Minneapolis), and Humboldt Secondary School (St. Paul). Participating students explore the reverence of ancestors in various cultures, such as Mexico’s Day of the Dead, both in the classroom and at the museum. Then, they design ofrendas (offerings) to honor the memory of friends, family members, or community personalities.

This annual exhibition, which has grown from a partnership with one school to four today, features a selection of ofrendas from each school. Watch a video blog of the students at work in their classrooms, following their progress from conceptual development to creative execution.

A selection of student ofrendas from each school is on view in the museum November 1 through December 4. Visit the Ofrenda blog.

This exhibition is organized by the Minneapolis Institute of Art. Generous support is provided by Best Buy Co., Inc. and Cargill.