The Messenger of Souls
Dia de los Muertos 2026 | October 22nd – November 6th
The Messenger of Souls – El mensajero de las almas
When animals become ambassadors between worlds
In the myths and legends of Mexico and Latin America, animals have been considered spiritual messengers between the living and the dead for centuries. They deliver messages, accompany souls, and embody the mysterious connection between the visible and the invisible world.
According to an ancient Mayan legend, the gods created the hummingbird from a precious jade stone to carry thoughts, wishes, and messages to humankind. The Xoloitzcuintle, the Mexican hairless dog, accompanies souls on their journey through the underworld, Mictlán. Butterflies symbolize transformation and return, while owls, jaguars, snakes, and other animals appear in various traditions as protectors, guides, or mediators between the worlds.
The exhibition "The Messenger of Souls – El mensajero de las almas" takes up these fascinating traditions and reinterprets them through contemporary art. Centuries-old traditions meet modern artistic expressions. The works invite viewers to discover the special relationship between humanity, nature, and spirituality, and to reflect on the meaning of life, death, and memory.
The central idea is that death does not necessarily mean the end of a connection. Memories, feelings, and love for deceased people live on – sometimes symbolized by a butterfly, sometimes by the unexpected visit of a hummingbird.
A particular highlight is the traditional Día de los Muertos altar by Mexican artist Gina Guajardo, which, with its colors, symbols and lovingly designed elements, brings the cultural significance of this special festival to life.
The exhibition, curated by Sonia Siblik, is accompanied by an interactive lecture on the myths and legends of the spirit messengers, as well as creative workshops.
Because sometimes a message needs no words – only wings.
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accompanying program
October 21 | 6:00–8:00 p.m.
Myths and legends surrounding the Messenger of Souls – Interactive lecture with Sonia Siblik followed by a hummingbird linocut printing workshop.
October 22 | 6:00 PM
Opening and Día de los Muertos fiesta.
October 23–24
Design your own Día de los Muertos altar – Two-day workshop with Gina Guajardo.
📍 Austrian Latin America Institute (LAI)
Frida Kahlo Hall, Türkenstraße 25, 1090 Vienna
Because sometimes a message needs no words – only wings.