Haitian Art

Haitian Art

Haiti is known as the poorest country in the Caribbean and is often only known by the devastation of the earthquake or for rumors of voodoo. However, Haiti is much more than that. Haitians as a people are extremely resilient people who have survived great trials and tribulations. On January 1, 1804, Haiti, located in the West Indies, made history by being the first Black Country to gain its independence from France.

Haitians are extremely proud of their history and have a vibrant colorful view on life despite what it may look like from the outside looking in. Because of this Haitian art is made to resemble this beautiful group of people and what they stand for. For example, many buses in America are yellow or filled with advertisements, while in Haiti new buses are painted by hand by artists in vibrant colors with phrases in French or English. And buildings such as schools and shops are painted by hand by artists in vibrant colors, sometimes the owner’s face is painted onto the building. Traditional oil and acrylic paintings are also often painted by artists and sold in outside tents and markets.

In my opinion I feel that art is better represented and has a higher importance in Haiti. Many of these artists make a living painting buildings, buses, cars, and selling their art. Their art is meant to show beautiful people and beautiful places. I feel that Haitian artists take the art from the canvas and use it to make a beautiful country. Instead of paying money at an auction to see art many people just step outside their homes and buy the art at a reasonable price or see it all around them. They essentially do what graffiti artists do but with paint and in a larger scale.