Interpretive planning for Seven Days: The Still Lifes of Chuck Ramirez was a total delight. There were so many possibilities for accessing his work. (As a refresher, art- museum interpretation encompasses the educational materials that help visitors engage with art during their visit.) Interpretation comes in various forms and is informed by what we hope visitors take away from their experience of a specific exhibition or gallery.

With their mesmerizing details, Chuck Ramirez’s larger-than-life still lifes of leftover food beg to be explored. So, an “I Spy” game seemed like a fun interpretive element to encourage visitors to look closely. Additionally, we wanted visitors to find the familiar and recognize that we all gather around food with our loved ones. To emphasize the relatability of these works, we invited two non-art experts—a local chef and a restaurateur—to write the labels for a work of their choosing. These labels are part of an ongoing initiative called Community Quotes.

It was also important to us that visitors gain some understanding of Ramirez as an artist and a human. We decided to re-create an ofrenda that Ramirez made in honor of his beloved grandmother, who taught him about his Mexican American heritage. With a vintage stove at the center, Ramirez’s ofrenda dually celebrates his grandmother’s love of cooking and religiosity. Ofrendas, or altars, are built in the houses of some Mexican and Mexican American families to honor deceased loved ones, especially during the Day of the Dead, November 2, when it’s believed that souls of the departed return to their homes. Marigolds are often included on these altars because it’s thought that their bright color and strong fragrance lead the way.

The Carter’s ofrenda is a way for us to collectively honor those who have passed before us. Visitors are invited to take a paper marigold, write the name of a deceased loved one, and add it to the display, connecting them not only to the artist Chuck Ramirez, but also to each other.

When you visit Seven Days, here are some insider tips for an engaging experience. Do one or do them all, and we hope to see you at the Carter soon:

• Look slowly and closely. Maybe you recognize a favorite food or drink, or perhaps you find something that reminds you of a person or time from your past.
• If you’re feeling like a challenge, pick up an “I Spy” guide at the gallery entrance and try to find all 14 of the hidden items.
• Read the Community Quotes labels and think about which work resonates most with you.
• Consider how you and your inner circle celebrate and gather around food.
• Contribute a paper marigold, or just take the time to read and reflect on contributions from the Carter community.