Sugar skull decoration employs vibrant hues, each carrying symbolic weight. For example, bright pink often represents celebration, while deep purple signifies mourning. These symbolic meanings add depth and complexity to the artistic tradition.
The significance of these hues extends beyond mere aesthetics. They provide a visual language connecting the living with their ancestors and the cycle of life and death, particularly during Da de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebrations. Historically, the use of natural dyes derived from plants and minerals influenced the available palette, further connecting these artworks to the natural world.
