This was created for the Ofrenda: Art for the Dead show at the Torpedo Factoryin Alexandria, Virginia in 2010 and for Sculpture III at George Mason University. I was stuck for what to create for class when I realized I had the show coming up.  Last year I noticed that most artists had altars so I thought I would try and create one too this year.  This was my first project for class and my first ever altar (or table-like structure for that matter).    The bottom bracing wasn't really part of the plan but then I learned that in carpentry bottom bracing on a tall structure is a good idea while it doesn't necessarily work aethetically, it works structurally. 

 I was attempting to mimic the effect of paper mache parade floats I had seen in many Google image searches for Dia de los Muertos.  The altar is constructed of wood which is then covered in caulk (yes caulk).  The kneecaps are technically made of polymer clay covered in caulk (for the record).  Then the altar was primered, spray painted white and then the black details were painted in.  For many days afterwards I did touch-up painting.  I think I could proabably drive myself insane doing touch-up painting for eternity actually - there always seems to be just one more spot that's not quite right. 

Completed:  October 2010.