This installation begins at the bottom of the stairs. You’ll notice yellow paper, handcrafted by maestro Pedro Ortega, imitating the path of marigolds leading to the altar. Along the sides of the stairs, you’ll see pine garlands adorned with monarch butterflies. Monarch butterflies migrate to specific regions in Mexico, like the forests of Michoacán and Toluca, where they cluster on Oyamel pine trees. It is believed by many, that these butterflies represent the spirits of migrants returning to Mexico, and they guide us, in that staircase, to this small part of Mexico in Singapore.

The altar has five levels and includes the traditional elements: a photo of the person it is dedicated to, his favourite foods and drinks, candles, an image of a Catholic saint (in this case, Our Lady of Guadalupe), and a space dedicated to children. You’ll also find small windows representing the everyday life of an artisan, honouring the unnamed creators.

I spoke with Leonardo Linares, Pedro Linares’ grandson, who shared some of his grandfather’s favourite things: baseball, listening to instrumental music, specially guitar and violin, and, of course, pulque. Though he liked all colours, red was his favourite, and you’ll see representations of all these in the offerings.

“Lo que mejor se aprende o transmite es aquello que se ama, aquello que te dice algo.” Meaning: “The best things you learn or teach are those you love, those that speak to you”