Illustration for Moreliando

2023

Context:
I created an illustration for the October-November 2023 edition of Moreliando, focusing on Día de Muertos in Morelia, Michoacán. The illustration was featured on the cover of 3,000 copies distributed across 90 locations, celebrating this key Mexican tradition.

Objective:
The goal of this project was to create an original illustration for the October-November 2023 edition of Moreliando, a free map distributed in Morelia, Michoacán, Mexico. This edition, dedicated to the Día de Muertos celebration, required an illustration that captured the cultural significance of the holiday while highlighting the festive and vibrant spirit of Morelia.

Role:
I was selected to design both the front and back cover illustrations for this special edition of Moreliando. My responsibilities included concept development, digital illustration, and crafting a design that reflected the essence of Día de Muertos through my signature use of color and storytelling. This project also allowed me to dedicate the artwork to my late grandparents, Flavio and Ramón, adding a personal and emotional element to the piece.

Solution:
Titled La Muerte y el Cempasúchil, the illustration presents a unique perspective on Death, showing her as a contemplative figure mesmerized by the light radiating from a marigold flower (cempasúchil). I used bright, vivid colors to emphasize the magical aura around the flower, creating a fan of vibrant hues that represents the life-affirming qualities of Día de Muertos. The piece embodies the Mexican cultural tradition of honoring death with celebration and color, staying true to my creative style while embracing the deeper cultural meaning of the holiday.

Outcome:
The illustration was featured on the cover of 3,000 copies of Moreliando distributed across 90 locations, including tourist information kiosks, trams, theaters, bars, cafés, hotels, and restaurants in Morelia’s main square and surrounding streets. This project allowed me to contribute to a beloved local publication, showcasing my work to both locals and tourists while celebrating a key Mexican tradition. The vibrant, colorful design resonated with the audience and became a memorable part of Morelia’s Día de Muertos celebrations.