"Happy" Day of the Dead To You

Wishing you and yours a very "happy" Day of the Dead . . . where we remember and salute folks who've departed this world . . . and where here, today in Beans, we also salute the folks who make art memorializing this process.

Through November 11, Artworks Downtown in San Rafael, California hosts "Dia de los Muertos" Exhibit of Altars. This is a terrific collection of artistic altars by many local artists. We were happy and lucky enough to attend the Opening Reception on October 14, and are here to report for you . . . .

Loved this intricate, mirror-focused altar from Isabel Hayes. "Home Is Where We Rest Our Bones" is her altar dedicated to "the people of San Rafael, here and gone." And when you stand a before the mirror, you're "here" in it!

Also loved this altar, which won the Judges' Choice Award.

Crafted by Petrina W., this amazing altar is her actual shrine to these folks, fashioned and displayed in her own private space, not even intended for an art gallery . . . and yet, we get to see all of this.

The love and detail and creativity are a wonder.

Particularly arresting is "Please Cross: An Altar For Those Murdered in Oakland in 2011."

Created by Oakland artist Savita Skye, this somber yet loving piece brings the statistics and headlines home. We appreciate the bold creative statement illustrating and commemorating this tragedy.

Also stunning was James Marc's "Always Leave The Door To The Unknown Ajar."

The amazingly complex construction of this altar even includes a light inside.

And David Benoit's piece -- hand-crafted "to provided materials for a person to put into writing the cherished memories of a loved one. To honor the departed," was a wonder. David built from scratch a writing desk for your love letters to those you've lost.

This includes the hand-built cabinetry, as well as all the art decorating its sides.

It includes secret compartments.

And along with all the wooden cabinetry, hand-crafted metal drawer pulls.

And David provides hand-crafted envelopes -- with cards inside -- for you to write to your dearly departed folks.

Here's hoping you'll visit this exhibit if you're in the San Francisco Bay Area, to see all these and many more terrific altars on display there.

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Since attending the Opening Reception just a few short weeks ago, my husband Clarke's long-time friend, business partner, and best fishing buddy Pat died of brain cancer that was diagnosed last spring. His funeral was last Saturday. On this first Day of the Dead since his untimely passing, we wish much love and peace to his good family.

We trust you are fishing in some great place right now, Pat. And while you are reeling them in, we hope you always know how much you were loved, and how much the past 25 years with you meant to Clarke. Be well!!!