Saving Haitian art

The earthquake in Haiti not only affected people, but also art, an important part of Haitian life. “It is difficult to talk about saving art when we must save lives,” said Haitian painter Maritou Chenet. The Centre d’Art, Port-au-Prince’s main art museum, was destroyed by the earthquake along with various other galleries and museums.

Above: Maritou Chenet at the Centre d'Art. [Brian Vander Brug / Los Angeles Times]

Haitian art is known for its symbolism, vivid colors and depictions of African culture. Paintings, sculptures and flags (or banners) are quintessential art forms in Haiti. Much of the art in these museums has been damaged or destroyed, but some pieces were spared and are now being saved out of the rubble. Fortunately, many major works were out of the country and, thus, safe.

Above: Paintings in the ruins of the Centre d'Art. [Brian Vander Brug / LA Times]

Many museums in the United States are working for the cause and hosting shows, exhibitions and benefits. The Waterloo Center for the Arts has a Haitian collection and is establishing a relief fund. The Contemporary Arts Center in New Orleans is organizing “Saints, Spirits and Sequins: Art from Haiti,” a show from which proceeds will benefit Haiti relief. The Figge Art Museum and the Milwaukee Art Museum are also supporting efforts.

Haitian artists who survived the earthquake are beginning to incorporate the disaster into their art, as seen in the painting below.

Above: Painting by Frantz Zephirin. [Brian Vander Brug / LA Times]