There are no words to describe the devastation and suffering taking place right now on Haiti. Rocked by an earthquake of catastrophic proportions, the already troubled Caribbean nation desperately needs the aid, support, and compassion of the world. And it seems like we’re really coming through for them! I just read that an incredible $8 million dollars have been donated via the Red Cross text message system alone. I was one of them, but I wish I could do so much more.
It is far too heartbreaking to write about the harrowing images on the news, the stories of dead bodies piling up, frightened children trapped under rubble, people in desperate need of food, water, and medical care. I have turned away from the TV three times already, crying and shaken. I can’t handle it. So what I will do instead is mention that we have a large Haitian community here in New York and they have been an integral part of our melting pot city for many, many years. Absolutely warm and wonderful people.
During a dark time like this, it’s important to remember that Haiti is much more than a destitute nation that has suffered immeasurably throughout its history with extreme poverty, natural disasters, and corrupt government. They are, first and foremost, a proud people. A culture. A nation whose history is inextricably tied to America’s history. A long-independent country full of resilient citizens . . . citizens with dreams, visions, talents, and passions, and the collective strong will to pull through this current horrific tragedy. They will. I am certain of it.
Haitian art is believed to have reached its pinnacle in the 1960s and 70s, although from my research it is definitely still going strong. Its styles and genres encompass everything from Impressionism to Cubism to Realism, figurative and abstract, and address subjects ranging from native island life and traditions, politics, spirituality, landscape, nature and animals. Haitian art comes in a variety of media, from oil to watercolor to sculpture. Like the people themselves, their artistic expression is rich and deep and imaginative.
Artists everywhere, not just in Haiti, should be impressed with the wonderful Carlo Jean-Jacques. A native of Port-au-Prince, he clearly projects the influence of Cezanne in his paintings of Haitian daily life and its people. This is Le Repas, from 1994:
Jean Rene Jerome was born in Haiti in 1942. A man of many creative talents, he studied at the prestigious Ecole des Beaux-Arts in France. His work has been exhibited around the world, including the Brooklyn Museum here in New York. One of his many enchanting female nudes, this is Goddess, from 1970:
Kesnel Franklin was born in Au Cayes, Haiti in 1945. I love this painting from 1970, Jeunne Fille a la Riviere:
Paul Beauvoir was a prominent figure in the history of Haitian art, and he used both line and color in truly magnificent ways. This acrylic work is titled Nightfall:
I found all the images for this post on the the terrific Haitian Painting site, and what a difficult task it was to make selections! So much extraordinary Haitian art to choose from. Do visit the site to see more art and read artists’ biographies. Also check out the Haitian Art Gallery.
You can donate to the Haitian relief at Doctors Without Borders, one of the finest humanitarian nonprofits around, and the American Red Cross.
No comments for two days, unusual, Claudia, maybe we’ll all at a loss for words.
None the less, your choices of Haitian are are great, thanks for sharing!
& not comfort or solace but maybe perspective or acceptance of what is; Dylan Thomas’, “A Refusal to Mourn the Death, by Fire, of a Child in London”: http://rpo.library.utoronto.ca/poem/3357.html
Jim,
Yes, unusual for Museworthy. A little comment drought going on here. No worries though. I still have you!
Thanks for the excellent poetry link. Very thought-provoking. And I’ve always been a big fan of Dylan Thomas. You read my mind.
Claudia
Well, it is shocking. It sounds like there are no buildings left, no water, no food, just people. What will happen next is not going to be good for mankind. Unless we can get enough supplies to everyone left, on a continual basis.
About the paintings… The Paul Beauvoir painting at the end, I originally did not like. But now I am intrigued by how he modeled the watershed the buildings are built on and the water in the sky. Where as the buildings have transparency. This may a more valuable painting in terms of symbolism than people realize.
…rog
Rog,
Very often, a second look is required to appreciate a work of art. Happens to me all the time. I really like your observations of the Beauvoir. I sensed something different and unique about the piece but couldn’t put my finger on it. Thank you for bringing it to light.
Claudia
This is very touching, Claudia, thank you for posting. Haiti is so much more than third-world country in a tiny island far, far away. It is important to understand its cultural significance to appreciate the importance of extending a helping hand. I appreciate you doing this because it has great significance in an effort to raise awareness.
Sergio,
I’m so pleased that this post touched you. It was a small effort on my part, but I hoped it would have some heartening effect on those who came across it.
Thank you very much for your appreciation and your empathy, and for posting a comment!
Claudia
A positive celebration of Haitian spirit and culture to balance the unrelenting media horror-fest. Thank you so much! It is good to see Haitian greatness, beauty and joy.
Fred,
Such a beautiful, concise statement. Thank you for that. “Unrelenting media horror-fest” is an apt description of what we’re seeing.
Claudia
Judging by the news last night, things don’t seem improved at all eight days on, in terms of aid reaching those in need. What a depression indictment of our culture. Thank you for the positive exploration of Haitian art.