Nov 282 min read

Día de los muertos

CATRINAS IN GERMANY: The Fusion of Tradition and Art

The art of Catrinas has long since made its way from Mexico to Europe, and one of the driving forces behind this is the Mexican mask artist Angeles Cruz. With over 20 years of experience as a professional makeup artist and now seven years of life in Germany, she brings the colorful, deeply symbolic traditions of her homeland here. In this photo series, we take a look at her extraordinary work and the story behind Catrinas in Germany.

A Journey Begins: From Mexico to Germany

In Mexico, Angeles was already working as a makeup artist, perfecting the artistic representation of the Catrina, which has gained worldwide fame as a symbol of Mexico’s “Day of the Dead.” But moving to Germany changed her perspective: "When I moved to Germany, I wanted to leave a cultural legacy," she says. The heritage of the Catrina, its tradition, and its artistic expression should continue to live here as well.

The Birth of “Catrinas en Germany”

In 2021, Angeles founded "Catrinas en Germany," an initiative that organizes workshops and cultural events focused on the Catrina. She has been invited to fashion events, cultural festivals, and European magazines to bring her vision of the Catrina to a new audience. For example, she was invited as a mask artist for the Day of the Dead cultural festival – a highlight of her work so far. For Angeles, it’s essential that her art is not limited to Germany alone: "I want to share this wonderful experience where one can gain a deeper insight into my work and the beauty of Catrinas in Germany."

Art in Focus: A Collaboration with Dieter Fieres

This photo series is the result of a unique collaboration between Angeles Cruz and renowned German photographer Dieter Fieres. "Dieter is an amazing photographer with a passion for colors and Mexican culture," Angeles says. Together, they created an impressive Catrina. The flower crown, an essential accessory of the Catrina, lends authenticity and symbolic power to the representation.

Why Catrinas in Germany?

Angeles sees her work as an opportunity to keep Mexico's cultural heritage alive in Europe: "Expressing art through makeup is, for me, a way to keep this tradition alive. I also want to pass on my love for my culture to my children.” For her, it is a special honor to be recognized as a cultural ambassador of Catrinas in Germany. “There are many people here in Europe who appreciate Mexico's cultural richness, and I am proud to be part of it.”

Thanks and Looking Ahead

With great gratitude, Angeles Cruz thanks the people who have accompanied her on this journey. "Without the support of great photographers like Dieter Fieres and our wonderful models, it wouldn’t have been possible to showcase these beauties," she says in closing. Her special thanks also go to Frankfurt-based designer Nedime Marques Ferreira, who, with her unique fashion creations under the brand Nechia, has further enriched the beauty and

authenticity of the Catrina.

With love,

Angeles Cruz and Dieter Fieres

“Long live the Day of the Dead!”