Review | At the National Gallery, loving Haitian art is a patriotic act
- The National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. has launched a landmark exhibition, 'Spirit & Strength: Modern Art from Haiti,' celebrating Haitian modernism and expanding its permanent collection with 21 donated works from notable Haitian artists, highlighting a commitment to diversity and inclusivity.
- The exhibition addresses historical marginalization of Haitian art, featuring works by trailblazing and contemporary Haitian artists. It explores themes of national identity, Haitian history, and Vodou traditions through vibrant paintings and textiles.
- By examining Haitian influence on African American artists, the exhibition highlights the broader impact of Haitian art on the African Diaspora, complemented by a reading room with Haitian music and literature to deepen visitors' understanding of Haitian culture.
Culture every morning
Always be up-to-date. Get the freshest on culture, every morning to your inbox.
A Patriotism of Art: Celebrating Haitian Modernism at the National Gallery
In a momentous occasion for both art enthusiasts and cultural historians, the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., has finally given a long-overdue tribute to Haitian modern art. The exhibition Spirit & Strength: Modern Art from Haiti, which opened on September 29, 2024, marks a significant milestone in the museum's commitment to diversity and inclusivity. This landmark exhibition brings some of Haiti's most renowned painters into the museum's permanent collection, a move that is as much about artistic expression as it is about cultural recognition.
A History of Marginalization
For decades, Haitian art has been marginalized, overlooked by mainstream galleries and collectors. However, with the donation of 21 works by modern and contemporary Haitian artists to the National Gallery, this neglect is being addressed. The gifts were made by art collectors Kay and Roderick Heller and Beverly and John Fox Sullivan, who have been passionate about Haitian art for years.
These donations include works by trailblazing artists like Rigaud Benoit, Hector Hyppolite, and Philomé Obin, as well as contemporary artists Myrlande Constant and Edouard Duval-Carrié. The range of expressions in these works demonstrates the diversity of modern art and highlights the joy, beauty, and gravity of Haitian history and culture.
Understanding Haitian Modernism
The roots of Haitian modernism can be traced back to the Indigenist movement of the 1920s. This movement, which aimed to develop a national identity inspired by folklore and popular culture, laid the foundation for Haiti's unique artistic expression. Over the years, Haitian artists continued to develop their styles based on personal interests, worldviews, social roles, and geographic locations.
The Centre d'Art, an artistic and educational institution founded in 1944 by American artist DeWitt Peters, played a pivotal role in supporting these artists. The Centre d'Art not only provided a platform for their work but also brought international attention to Haitian art. This recognition was particularly significant from African American artists who found inspiration in Haiti's revolutionary history and cultural traditions.
The Exhibition: A Journey Through Haitian History and Culture
Spirit & Strength: Modern Art from Haiti is organized thematically to provide a comprehensive understanding of Haitian art. The exhibition begins with Haiti's national history and depictions of everyday life. Works from the mid-20th to the early 21st century range from boisterous market scenes to solemn portraits of government officials. These pieces shed light on historical events that were erased or obscured in coverage outside the country.
The second room focuses on Vodou, a significant aspect of Haitian culture. Expressive paintings and textiles depict the distinctive characters of the lwas (spirits) and biblical narratives. Some works include vèvès, geometric symbols that together form a language of signs, each used to invoke a particular lwa during rituals. Others draw on Vodou traditions to create surrealistic imagery that seems to occupy a space between dreams and reality.
African Diasporic Influence
The final room examines Haitian influence on African American artists who traveled to Haiti from the 1930s to the 1980s. Artists like Jacob Lawrence, Lois Mailou Jones, and William Edouard Scott found inspiration in Haiti's revolutionary history and identified with its struggles against racism and imperialism. Their art reflects the significance of Haitian history and culture in the wider African Diaspora.
A Reading Room Experience
In addition to the artworks, Spirit & Strength also features a reading room with ambient Haitian music and texts for adults and children. This inviting space encourages visitors to learn more about Haiti and its influences on modern art. The inclusion of this interactive element underscores the National Gallery's commitment to making art accessible to everyone.
Conclusion
Spirit & Strength: Modern Art from Haiti is more than just an exhibition; it is a celebration of Haitian culture and a recognition of the country's significant contributions to modern art. The exhibition brings together works by some of Haiti's most renowned artists, providing a comprehensive overview of Haitian modernism. This landmark event not only enriches the National Gallery's collection but also serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of diversity and inclusivity in the art world.
For those interested in exploring further, the exhibition will remain on view until March 9, 2025. With its thematic organization and diverse range of works, Spirit & Strength is an absolute must-see for both art enthusiasts and those seeking to deepen their understanding of Haitian history and culture. The National Gallery has once again demonstrated its dedication to showcasing the best of global art, and this exhibition is no exception.