Haitian Art ( Part 1 )

"They say that God created man and man created art, and the fact that Haiti has so much political problems; it's like art is a door way to a new life."

 Haiti was the first black republic established in the world. As one of the richest colonies on earth, the country fought and won it's independence from France in 1804. However, Haiti has endured continual turmoil and hardship for almost two centuries. Currently, it is the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere, a far cry from its economic condition in the eighteenth and nineteenth century. Some of the country's inability to develop and flourish are homegrown. The continued discontentment and widespread contempt that existed between and among the Haitian people are significant factors in the continual demise and misery of the country. Accordingly, the mere reference of Haiti in the international arena means constant political turmoil, dictatorships, despotic military regime, misery, poverty, destructions, ecocide, and natural disasters.

Description:

 While Haiti's hardships will continue into the next millennium, Haitian art is a reflection of the beauty of the country. Within that reflection emerged the identity of the people, and the expression of pride in a deep and lasting tradition. This pride is exhibited in its African roots, its old religion, its oral history, mythology, relationship with France, and its freedom in the new world. The subject matter in the paintings is a reflection of all the cultural influences at work, and reflective of the long lasting heritage of the people. This influence on the paintings and the culture derived from:
 (1) an African belief systems of life and styles which is more common among the peasantry;
(2) the European influence, that is the French language, the architecture and interior decorating, and as a way of life for some;
(3) the influence of the Indians, which has survived in "utilitarian" objects and in goods such as cassava.
This case study will examine Haitian art through its paintings, and with the beauty, history, roots, and the mark the art has made on the development of the country. An overview of the country's history, which paralelled the struggle and growth of her art will also be presented. Additionally, reference will be made to sculptures, handcrafts, the economy and the overall affect of tourism, as well as the environmental condition of the country.
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