Cemetery Art

Words and Photography by Joshua Scarselli.

Cemeteries are an often overlooked part of our communities. Surrounded by the stigma of death, their beauty is often missed or dismissed. But what better place for an ornate display than a space dedicated to commemorating the lives of those we have loved and lost? These are places built not only for remembrance, but also for reflection, storytelling, and artistry.

While some headstones are simple, containing just names and dates, others are stunning works of art—elaborate sculptures, detailed engravings, and thoughtfully chosen symbols that speak volumes about the people they represent. These monuments are more than markers of death; they are creative expressions of life, memory, and emotion.

Often, as a teenager, I would walk through cemeteries and admire the creativity and care put into many of the memorials. There was something deeply moving about seeing how families chose to honor their loved ones. Recently, I took a stroll through two of the historic cemeteries in Kingston, NY: Montrepose Cemetery and Wiltwyck Rural Cemetery. These resting places are rich in history and full of character.

Montrepose, in particular, holds personal meaning for me. It’s where two of my great-grandparents are buried, along with various other family members. There’s something grounding about visiting their graves, standing in a place where your own family roots are literally part of the landscape. Montrepose was established in 1850, and you can find graves that go back just as far. Some are weather-worn and crumbling, while others remain striking in their craftsmanship even after more than a century.

Wiltwyck Rural Cemetery is another place that screams history and art. This is a lot more tightly packed than Montrepose. The condensed graves are slightly elevated, reminiscent of something you would see in New Orleans. Also founded in the 1850s Wiltwyck has graves with an ancient flair to them and an artistic touch to match.

Walking through Montrepose and Wiltwyck, I was reminded again of how these spaces offer more than sorrow. They offer connection—to family, to community, to history, and even to beauty. Cemeteries may be places of mourning, but they are also full of life—of artistry, tradition, and quiet reverence.

Next time you go by a cemetery, take a look. Art is everywhere and in everything.  These monuments were erected for us to admire and learn a brief part of a person’s life. Don’t let them go to waste.

More from Joshua Scarselli …