Skulls - a spooky symbol?

Posted on October 31, 2013 by Eleanor Swinhoe

Skulls in jewellery are BIG - they are cool! Representing Heavy Rock or the Vanity of Life?

In Mexico the Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is a 3 day holiday celebrating and honoring those who have died - I think it wonderful to remember those who have gone before.

Sugar skulls (calaveras de azúcar) are often placed on altars to represent the sweetness of life mixed with the sadness of death.

I love this tutorial by Deadly is the Female on doing your own Day of the Dead make up - give it a go this Halloween (I'm going to give myself a sugar skull this weekend!).

The skull in its obvious context means death and danger - its use on poison and famously as a symbol of Pirates on the Jolly Roger (although real pirates probably did not announce their arrival in such a blatant fashion - a plain black flag signified danger enough on the high seas!).

As far as skulls in art are concerned, I am blown away by the work of Lauren Baker - her skulls are embellished with mosaic, sequins, spikes, beads - some are gilded in gold, silver, or copper leaf.

But my favourite skull representation this Halloween has to be my little monster!