Hispanic Heritage Month kicks off in Topeka

The Kansas Historical Society is hosting two exhibits to celebrate Hispanic Heritage month as well as activities for Diá de los Muertos.

The Continuing the Tradition: Mexican American Folk Arts exhibit will showcase folk art that Mexican immigrants brought to Kansas, such as crocheted flowers and textiles.

A Día de los Muertos exhibit will feature handmade objects from Topeka and Mexico, made with traditional Aztec symbols like skeletons and skulls.

Other events planned in celebration of Día de los Muertos include a Molé cooking class, Fiesta de arte y Calaveras (Fiesta of art and skulls) and the Hermosos Huesos (Beautiful Bones) exhibit.

The Mulvane Art Museum is the first in the country to show the Hermosos Huesos collection; on display Oct. 31 to Dec. 15. The exhibit features 13 costumed figurines from mixed-media artist Wayne Hilton, inspired by Mexican cartoonist illustrator José Guadalupe Posada and his most famous creation, La Calavera Catrina (Elegant Skull.)

Día de los Muertos is traditionally celebrated Nov. 1 and 2, and is a fusion of both old and new worlds. The holiday celebrates life by remembering those who have passed away. Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated annually Sept. 15 through Oct. 15.

A list of other events commemorating Hispanic Heritage Month and Día de los Muertos can be found at www.visittopeka.com/events/ddlm.