A Celebration of Culture in Bloom: 'La Calavera Catrina' Arrives at Columbus Botanical Garden
- 20 hours ago
- 3 min read
Some exhibitions invite us to admire beautiful works of art. Others invite us to understand the stories that shaped them. This summer, the Columbus Botanical Garden offers both with La Calavera Catrina, a colorful outdoor exhibition that celebrates one of Mexico's most enduring cultural icons while exploring themes of identity, remembrance, and tradition.
From June 26 through November 9, 2026, La Calavera Catrina will transform the Garden into an open-air celebration of art, history, and tradition through nine towering, eight-foot sculptures created by acclaimed Mexican artist Ricardo Soltero. Nestled throughout the Garden's living landscapes, the colorful exhibition offers guests the opportunity to encounter these larger-than-life figures amid blooming gardens and peaceful walking paths, creating an experience that is as educational as it is visually stunning.
Originally organized by the Denver Botanic Gardens, the exhibition is included with regular Garden admission and introduces visitors to the enduring story behind La Catrina—the elegant skeleton who has become an enduring symbol of Mexican culture.
The Story Behind La Catrina
Although many people associate La Catrina with Día de los Muertos celebrations, her story began as political satire.
In 1913, Mexican illustrator José Guadalupe Posada created the original image of La Catrina as a critique of the wealthy elite who embraced European fashions while ignoring their own cultural identity. More than a century later, the figure has evolved into an internationally recognized symbol celebrating the beauty of life, remembrance, and cultural heritage.
Throughout the exhibition, guests will discover sculptures inspired by beloved figures from Mexican history and folklore, including artist Frida Kahlo, actress María Félix, and Mictēcacihuātl, the Aztec queen of the underworld. Informational signage presented in both English and Spanish provides historical context, allowing visitors to deepen their understanding of the iconography behind each piece.
Meet the Artist
Born in Nayarit, Mexico, Ricardo Soltero is an internationally recognized sculptor and costume designer whose work has been featured across major cultural institutions and events.
He serves as the set designer for the largest Día de los Muertos celebration in the United States at Hollywood Forever Cemetery in Los Angeles. His creative portfolio also includes projects with Metropolitan Fashion Week, UNICEF's annual gala, the Autry Museum, and the Semblanza LatinoAmericana dance and music festival.
More Than an Exhibition
The Columbus Botanical Garden plans to celebrate the exhibition throughout its run with special La Calavera Catrina-themed events, giving visitors even more opportunities to experience the traditions, artistry, and joyful spirit surrounding this iconic cultural figure.
Whether you're a longtime admirer of Mexican art and culture or simply looking for a unique way to spend an afternoon outdoors, La Calavera Catrina promises an unforgettable blend of history, storytelling, and artistic expression set against one of Columbus' most beautiful natural backdrops.
Plan Your Visit
Exhibition Dates: June 26 – November 9, 2026
Admission:
Columbus Botanical Garden Members: Free
Adults: $12
This summer, ages 0–17 receive free entry into the Garden by signing up for a Kids’ Free Summer Membership valid now through September 4th. This includes free entry into La Calavera Catrina events and children's programs throughout the summer.
Have questions? Click here for more information about the exhibition, admission, and the Garden's upcoming programming.
The exhibition is generously sponsored by Nora and Gardiner Garrard and Aflac.
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