Artist Vibiana Aparicio stands in front of the altar for Magu created by his family.
This afternoon a community memorial service and life celebration was held at the East Los Angeles Civic Center for artist Gilbert Magu Lujan. Emceed by Richard Montoya of Culture Clash, with ceremonial nahuatl dance and music led by Martin Espino, a poignant opening by curator and art historian Tere Romo, a touching letter to Magu written and read by muralist Wayne Healy, a special “Haiku for Magu” by Ruben Guevara, filmmaker Jesus Trevino‘s observation of Magu as the spark that invoked a new art movement, as well as numerous other friendship, family and historical moments were publicly made today.
Guests added momentos to the altar "Tree of Life" for Magu.
Detail of backside of altar.
Detail of branches displaying items from Magu's art imagery.
Ruben Guevara chats by the arts & crafts table.
The earliest guests reserve a shady space overlooking the civic center's stage.
Family & friends decorate the park with quotes by Magu wrapped on trees and flowers.
Cut outs of imagery that was iconic in Magu's work float over the presenters on stage.
"Los Cabrones de San Diego" bring Magu's inspiration to the park.
The leader of the pack is the Magulandia mobile.
The afternoon ended with socializing and heat quenching refreshments.
There was a mesmerizing power point mix of family photos, Magu's words and historical footage in the library.