Francisca Garcia gave a nice explanation of the elements of an ofrenda while showcasing one herself. The one behind her had a very nice color scheme: showcasing large sunflowers, candles, what seems like orange and pink play flowers, papel picado with more flower patterns, and finally a chair to her left.
She first mentions how the word ofrenda translates into ‘welcome,’ which refers to our (people who are alive) responsibility to welcome the dead as if they are home, whether or not they are related to us. She says the three levels of most every ofrenda (like the one behind her) are a representation of the stages before life & birth, life here, and death. She also mentions that ofrendas can range in size: from small and able to fit on a table, to much much bigger.
After, Francisca discusses the key items that make an ofrenda, while showing examples on hers. Water is necessary, a bit of salt as a metaphor for life’s flavor, photographs of the loved ones, flowers (such as, but not limited to cempasuchil), foods, bebidas, candles to light the way, calaveras as a metaphor for the sweetness of life, and finally, some of the person’s favorite items.
Francisca points out that the chair is not only a favorite item, but an item of remembrance for Roberto Maestas, one of the founders of El Centro. For her, it is used as a remembrance and way for his spirit to know he is always welcome to visit since that is where he lived his life.
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