El Velorio, a Dia de los Muertos celebration produced by Los Angeles-based artist Antonio Pelayo, returns for its 7th year on November 5th, 2016. The special event will feature art, live bands (headliner Metalachi), DJ sets, performances, celebrity host Melissa Santos and is expected to draw thousands of people to Plaza de la Raza.
“I created El Velorio in 2009 and launched it in October of 2010 with the intention of showcasing new artists,” said Antonio Pelayo. “I was given that opportunity and I felt a need to help others. I’ve showcased hundreds of new artists that have been inspired to continue their art careers, and hope to continue doing the same.”
This year’s mariachi themed El Velorio will be the event’s seventh year, and will open with a special performance by Danza Azteca, live music by Mariachi Manchester, DJ Gazoo, and headliner Metalachi. The concurrent art exhibition will feature over 100 local artists as well as live mural painting, Dia de los Muertos-themed airbrush makeup, a fashion show, photobooths, and of course refreshments and food.
“The event has evolved to something I never imagined it would become,” continued Pelayo. “It’s attracted legendary artists like Freddy Negrete, Johnny Quintana and Mark Mahoney, just to name a few. And I’ve been able to raise hundreds of thousands of dollars throughout the years for several non profits that have to do with teaching arts to kids.
Pelayo himself was raised in the Mexican countryside, moving to Los Angeles suburb in his youth. He has used art as a vehicle to explore his dual identity: that as raised in a typical Americana suburb, but also as part of a rich cultural heritage from his hometown. A portion of all the proceeds from El Velorio will be donated to Plaza de la Raza to provide after-school arts education and mentorship programs to children on the east side of Los Angeles.
“I look forward to it this year because I’m bringing back Metalachi. the first major band I booked back in 2011. And this year the art exhibit features about 10 artists that are making their debut as fine artists.”
El Velorio will take place Saturday, November 5 from 6pm to 1am at Plaza de la Raza located at 3540 N. Mission Road, Los Angeles, CA. Tickets and more info are available at elvelorio.eventbrite.com.