For Maria Flores of El Sereno, this week is a delightful intersection of two deep passions: her vibrant Mexican heritage and her unwavering love for the Los Angeles Dodgers. As the Boys in Blue battle the New York Yankees in the World Series, Flores seamlessly blends these two worlds.
“There’s just something special about cheering for the Dodgers,” she says, her voice laced with hometown pride. Her words flow effortlessly as she meticulously paints fine details onto her chest, crafting the delicate clavicle of a skeletal figure using an airbrush. “It’s what inspires me to create.”
This intricate makeup process, a labor of love lasting four and a half to six hours, is the foundation of her captivating La Muerte Maria persona. A unique interpretation of the iconic Catrina figure, she emerges as a stunning reminder of Dia de los Muertos. The celebration, honoring loved ones who have passed, has already begun and continues through early November.
Upon completion, the effect is breathtaking. Luminous blue contact lenses grant her eyes an ethereal glow, expertly drawn lines sculpt a chilling skull across her face, culminating in a perfectly aligned grin that reveals pearly white teeth. To complete the look, she dons a traditional sequined sombrero, paired with a homemade quinceañera dress, its vibrant Dodger blue fabric adorned with proud team logos.
“When people see me at Dodger Stadium,” she explains, “I hope they feel a sense of connection. It reminds them of their beloved family members who joined them for those games in the past.”
Dia de los Muertos, or “Day of the Dead,” is a cherished Mexican tradition spanning over a century, embraced by countless Angeleno families. This vibrant celebration stands in stark contrast to Halloween. While Halloween focuses on scares, Dia de los Muertos is a joyous remembrance, paying tribute to the spirits of dearly departed loved ones and friends.
“I’ve always had a deep affection for Dia de los Muertos. It’s an essential part of who I am,” Flores reflects while delicately applying the final brushstrokes to her masterpiece.
By day, Flores is a dedicated preschool teacher with LAUSD, but her evenings are transformed into a realm of artistic expression. Her Dodger-inspired La Muerte Maria costume is just one facet of her creative genius. Her talents extend to murals, costume design, and even whimsical cake decorating.
“People were absolutely captivated,” she recounts with a beaming smile. “They were amazed. Truly in awe.”
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Interview: A Cultural Celebration in a Dodger Blue Frame
Editor: Welcome, everyone, to another edition of our interview series at Time.news. Today, I’m thrilled to be joined by Maria Flores, a talented artist from El Sereno who melds her vibrant Mexican heritage with her love for the Los Angeles Dodgers in a unique way. Thank you for being here, Maria!
Maria Flores: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to share my story.
Editor: Let’s dive right into it. You mentioned that your passion for the Dodgers is intertwined with your Mexican heritage. Can you tell us what that connection means to you?
Maria: Absolutely! For me, cheering for the Dodgers is about more than just baseball; it’s a way to celebrate community and family. Growing up, Dodger games were family affairs—times when we could all be together, cheering on our team. By blending this with my heritage, through art and traditions like Dia de los Muertos, I’m honoring both my roots and the joy that baseball brings me.
Editor: Speaking of your art, could you tell us about the La Muerte Maria persona you’ve created? It sounds both intricate and beautiful!
Maria: La Muerte Maria is my interpretation of the iconic Catrina, the elegant skeleton that represents the Day of the Dead. Creating this character is a labor of love—it takes about four and a half to six hours of meticulous airbrushing and makeup. When I wear the look, I want it to be a stunning representation of life, death, and everything in between, especially amidst the joy of cheering for the Dodgers.
Editor: That’s fascinating! You mentioned the emotions tied to Dodger Stadium. What do you hope people feel when they see your creation at the games?
Maria: I hope that people feel a sense of connection—both to their loved ones who have passed and to their favorite memories at the stadium. Seeing La Muerte Maria, especially in my Dodger blue attire, can remind fans of the family members who cheered alongside them in the past. It’s all about celebrating life and remembering those who have contributed to our shared experiences.
Editor: That balance between remembrance and celebration during Dia de los Muertos must be very special, especially as it contrasts with the more fright-focused nature of Halloween. How do you think these cultural expressions differ?
Maria: Exactly! Halloween is often about scares and the supernatural, while Dia de los Muertos is a joyous celebration. It’s a time to honor our loved ones and celebrate their lives with colorful altars, music, and art. By embodying the Catrina and blending it with something as joyful as baseball, I’m trying to showcase that life goes on, and by remembering those we’ve lost, we keep their spirit alive.
Editor: Such a powerful perspective, Maria. As you prepare for this World Series, how do you see your art evolving?
Maria: Each year, I try to innovate with the creation of La Muerte Maria. Whether it’s incorporating new elements of Dodger history or artistic techniques, I constantly seek to reflect the changes in both the team and the cultural aspects surrounding us. This year, embracing the championship spirit of the Dodgers while paying homage to my heritage feels more important than ever.
Editor: It’s inspiring to see such dedication and depth in your work. Any final thoughts you’d like to share with our readers who might want to celebrate their heritage while supporting their teams?
Maria: Absolutely! Embrace your passions, whether it’s art, sports, or traditions. Blend them and create something new. It’s about finding joy and creating connections—whether through your team’s victories or remembering cherished moments with family. Celebrate who you are in every way you can!
Editor: Thank you so much, Maria. It’s been a pleasure talking to you about your incredible blend of culture and sport. We wish you the best of luck for both Dia de los Muertos and the Dodgers in the World Series!
Maria: Thank you! Go Dodgers!