Haitian Art has become one of the prominent art types in the international market today. However, it all started with Haiti’s independence way back in 1804. The instability in Haitian society to establish itself as a unique cultural identity led to the development of Haitian Art. A desire finally came true during the 1940s with the rise of folk art. This period witnessed the use of simple shapes and bold colors to display the everyday life activities of the Haitians. These art forms also became a part of storytelling and symbolism.
In 1944, when the Centre d’Art School of Haitian Art, founded by the American watercolorist Dewit Peters and several prominent intellectuals Haitians (Maurice Borno, Albert Mangones, Géo Remponeau, Jean Chenet, and Gérald Blomcour), opened its doors, serving as an art gallery and a museum, it became an important institution as it introduced Haitian artists to the international market. Hector Hyppolite, Castera Bazile, Rigaud Benoit, Philome Obin, and Wilson Bigaud are prominent Haitian artists to name and know about.
Whether looking at the Haitian Artwork of today or a few years back, the artwork holds several characteristics that make it unique and attract many people to own it. Some of the essential characteristics that you can notice in Haitian art are:
- Use of patterns and vibrant colors
- A reflection of spirituality and symbolism
- Depictions of Rituals and Everyday Life Activities
- Raw, Direct, and Simple Emotional Connection
- A Bond with Nature
While these are the significant characteristics of Haitian artwork, artists continuously evolve their ideas to implement modern techniques in traditional themes. Today, the growth of Haitian art has provided this art form an international reputation as it finds its place in various art galleries and museums worldwide.
Many people and institutions today own Haitian art for home and office decor or other purposes. So, what are the reasons that have motivated people constantly to collect Haitian art today? Let us find out.
Today, people collect Haitian art for various reasons. Here are some of the most common reasons:
- Preserving the cultural heritage of Haiti and letting future generations know about it.
- The unique and distinctive art form evokes an emotional and spiritual language.
- Offering support to Haitian artists trying to rise.
Haitian art is much more than just an aesthetic element. Instead, it is a cultural expression. Collectors may get these artworks for passion or profit to enjoy their experiences.
So, should you buy Haitian art for passion or profit? This depends highly on factors such as your financial goals or personal values. Specific explanations can help us understand this.
Most people buy Haitian art because they are passionate about it. Here are some of the reasons why someone buys artwork for passion.
- Cultural Significance: Haitian art is all about storytelling and cultural richness. Its vibrant elements connect you with the Haitian community and let you appreciate the symbols and signs conveyed in them. As you invest in these art forms, you get something meaningful for your gallery or home and fulfill your responsibility towards letting future generations know about Haiti's culture and society.
- Emotional Satisfaction: Haitian art is the perfect option for you if you have a weakness for vibrant artwork and something that reflects emotional and spiritual symbols. Sometimes, money is not everything; it is more about emotional satisfaction. The raw emotions and the spiritual rituals like Voodoo in these artworks connect immediately with those inclined towards such elements.
- Supporting Artists: People passionate about this art form also invest in the artworks to support the financial stability of the Haitian artists. It helps in offering support for the Haitian community’s challenges.
While many people invest in Haitian Art for their passion, many others find it profitable.
- Investment Potential: Though the art form has not yet reached a particular market niche, many Haitian artists have gained international recognition. Many artists' works are auctioned at a higher price at the Haitian Art Gallery, making Haitian art one of the potential investments. However, you must adequately research the authenticity and background of Haitian art before investing.
- Limited Market: Interest in Haitian art is gaining in popularity each time. However, as the market is limited now, it is the right time to invest in the artwork for profitable returns in the long run. Many artists whose artwork gets recognized globally will gain immense outcomes and make huge profits.
Now, there is also a third wheel of people who balance passion and profit. You can invest in Haitian artwork based on your love for the emotional values and then wait for the time to ripen to let its prices rise. Of course, you must make the correct decisions with proper research and doing Haitian Art Appraisals to get the piece that offers you the desired profits in the long run.
Whether you wish to buy Haitian art for your passion or profit is absolutely your decision. Whatever it is, you must get the correct one from a legitimate place. You can come up with diverse Haitian works from various artists at the Myriam Nader Haitian Art Gallery. Get in touch at 1-845-367-3039 or send your queries to myriamnader2007@aol.com regarding any artwork you like.