The Cross of Life

The Cross of Life, as described by the French anthropologist Jacques Soustelle, is a symbol that represents the totality of the world. In Mexico, it is considered a symbol of orientation that refers to the four cardinal points. It represents time and space in relation to the rotation of the planet and the sunrise and sunset.

Depending on the indigenous culture we refer to, seven cosmic directions are recognized: north, south, east and west, the areas above and below, and the interior or center. Most of the myths about the origin of life, the laws of the cosmos, the planes of the universe, and the agricultural and festive cycles are based on this concept.

Today, each indigenous group has developed its own version of the cross, incorporating ideological and cultural elements from both the West and the East. The series of crosses currently being made will be part of the Day of the Dead celebrations.

Green Cross by Sonia Siblik, Intervention Irena Reichel

Various indigenous cultures recognize seven cosmic directions: north, south, east, west, above, below, and the center or inner. Many myths about the origin of life, the laws of the cosmos, the planes of the universe, and the agricultural and festive cycles are based on this concept.

Today, each indigenous group has developed its own interpretation of the cross, incorporating both Western and Eastern ideological and cultural elements. The series of crosses currently under development is part of the Day of the Dead celebrations and adds a deeper symbolic dimension to this holiday.

Here, the cross is understood not solely as a religious symbol, but as a comprehensive expression of the cosmogony of the indigenous peoples—as a connection between the underworld, the earthly world, and heaven. The fusion of floral elements with spiritual symbolism builds a bridge between two cultures that—however different they may be—are in dialogue with and recognize each other.

These works invite the viewer to look beyond cultural boundaries and recognize the deep roots of traditions that continue to evolve together despite all differences. Here, the cross is not only a religious concept but also a symbol of nature that gives us orientation and shows us the way through life.

The crosses in this series rise as flourishing symbols of life, calling us to unity, growth and harmony.

Various indigenous cultures recognize seven cosmic directions: north, south, east, west, above, below, and the center or inner. Many myths about the origin of life, the laws of the cosmos, the planes of the universe, and the agricultural and festive cycles are based on this concept.

Today, each indigenous group has developed its own interpretation of the cross, incorporating both Western and Eastern ideological and cultural elements. The series of crosses currently under development is part of the Day of the Dead celebrations and adds a deeper symbolic dimension to this holiday.

Here, the cross is understood not solely as a religious symbol, but as a comprehensive expression of the cosmogony of the indigenous peoples—as a connection between the underworld, the earthly world, and heaven. The fusion of floral elements with spiritual symbolism builds a bridge between two cultures that—however different they may be—are in dialogue with and recognize each other.

These works invite the viewer to look beyond cultural boundaries and recognize the deep roots of traditions that continue to evolve together despite all differences. Here, the cross is not only a religious concept but also a symbol of nature that gives us orientation and shows us the way through life.

The crosses in this series rise as flourishing symbols of life, calling us to unity, growth and harmony.