Traditional craftsmanship creates a fusion between Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens and the Day of the Dead tradition

Mexican multidisciplinary artist Ivette Chaires Hidalgo is presenting her first solo exhibition at Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens in South Philadelphia. Titled Living Through Death, the exhibition reflects the artist’s deep connection to Mexican cultural traditions and folk art.

Chaires, who was born and lives in the state of Puebla, describes her work as a tribute to memory and heritage. “For me, cartonería is a way of honoring those who are no longer with us. It keeps them present in our lives while elevating folk art to the place it deserves,” she said.

Through a series of sculptures made from kraft paper, Chaires pays tribute to renowned muralist and artist Isaiah Zagar, while celebrating the richness of Mexico’s Day of the Dead traditions.

Originally from Cholula, Puebla, Chaires applied in 2024 for the Julia Zagar Residency for Women Artists and was selected to spend two weeks in Philadelphia. During her residency, she immersed herself in the environment of Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens, explored Zagar’s artistic legacy, interacted with the organization’s staff, and experienced the city firsthand.

The exhibition draws inspiration from the site’s iconic mosaics, created from tiles, broken mirrors, glass bottles, bicycle wheels, ceramics, and folk-art objects. Her walks through Philadelphia also influenced the collection, inspiring details that became central elements in her artwork.

During an artist talk and exhibition tour held on August 4, Chaires guided visitors through a vibrant world filled with traditional imagery, bold colors, and cultural symbolism. Her works also highlight the lives of working people in both Philadelphia and Cholula.

“I want to give visibility to the people behind Philadelphia’s major projects, as well as to the weavers and embroiderers in my community whose highly detailed work often goes unrecognized. Many of them are Indigenous women whose contributions remain largely unseen,” she said.

One of the most meaningful aspects of her residency, which took place in November 2024, was “meeting the people of Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens and connecting with them through art,” Chaires noted.

The exhibition is the result of her participation in the Julia Zagar Residency for Women Artists 2024, a program designed to support women artists from Mexico and South America whose work is rooted in traditional crafts. Following a period of research and cultural immersion in Philadelphia, Chaires created a collection that bridges Mexican community symbolism with the city’s artistic and urban landscape.