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Latin and
Caribbean Art:
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Hair Up, $230
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Voodoo Blacksmiths The
unrest and critical financial situation in Haiti has given birth to newest art forms
inspired by the rich mythology of voodoo. Over
a dozen different artists are turning old metal oil drums into unique and striking relief
sculptures in Croix-des-Bouquets. The
sculptures represent snakes, dragons, angels and other things that may defy description. Each is unique with a special meaning, usually
inspired in voodoo, rich Haitian art.
The art
is attributed originally to Georges Liautaud. In
1899, he opened a blacksmith shop and became working on decorative metal sculptures in the
early 1950s. He then helped his neighbors to
learn the skills too.
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drums are their raw materials. The process of converting old drums into
sculptures is both a tribute to man's imagination and resourcefulness in the face of dire
economic needs. The old drums need to have the ends removed. The ends are used for smaller sculptures. Next, the drum is stuffed with straw and lit on
fire to burn off any residues. When it cools
down, it is flattened in a four by six foot wide metal canvass. Most designs of the now cleaned metal sheet are
drawn in chalk, and the artist proceeds to cut and hammer with a chisel until the piece is
made and coated. |
Birds in Paradise, $150 small
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![]() The Mermaid,
GV012-HT, $200
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We are
pleased to present works from four fine and emerging sculptors: Jose Delpe, Joseph Guilno, Pieree Richard
Desrosiers and John Sylvestre. Jose Delpe is
one of the youngest artists in Croix-des-Bouquets. He
is developing a unique style by welding metal together in a three-dimensional pattern that
is full of movement and perspective. John
Sylvestre, was taught by masters Janvier Louisjuste and Serge Jolimeau. He is both a Catholic and a voodooist. His famous
characters are zobop (ghouls with both animal and human features), baka (demons and
devils) and loupgaru (werewolves). He is the
only sculptor currently honoring Ogou Feray, the spirit symbolizing the strength of the
metal, great exponents of Haitian art. Enjoy
our magical, three-dimensional iron, Haitian art sculptures:
Some of these sell quickly, we'll provide a very similar metal piece with
your approval. |
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