Brooklyn, NY—Haiti Cultural Exchange (HCX) is thrilled to announce Sacred Banners of Haitian Vodou, a landmark exhibition exploring the rich history and artistry of Haitian Vodou banners. This extraordinary collection, curated by renowned Haitian art historian and curator Axelle Liautaud, highlights the intricate beauty, cultural significance, and spiritual resonance of these handcrafted works.
This exhibition coincides with the Outsider Art Fair, offering visitors an opportunity to experience the depth and vibrancy of Haitian Vodou artistry alongside one of the art world’s most celebrated showcases of self-taught and unconventional artists.
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Inspired by 18th and 19th-century French church ornaments and army flags, Vodou banners—known as drapo Vodou—have been central to Haitian Vodou ceremonies for centuries. Used to adorn altars and carried during vibrant dancing processions honoring the lwa, these banners are masterpieces of beadwork, sequins, and fabric art.
Drawn from Axelle Liautaud’s personal collection, which she began amassing in the 1980s, Sacred Banners of Haitian Vodou features works from the era’s pioneering flag makers to contemporary artisans, offering an unparalleled look at the evolution of this traditional art form.
Featured Artists
The exhibition showcases banners by 15 master artists, including:
- Antoine Oleyant
- Myrlande Constant
- Jean Baptiste Jean Joseph
- Dubréus Lhérisson
- Rudy Azor
- And many more
Their works represent diverse artistic styles and techniques, underscoring the individuality and innovation within this centuries-old tradition.
In addition to the exhibition, HCX will present activations on Sunday, February 9th and 13th:
Sunday, February 9 | 1-6 pm: Curator Tour & Art Sale
Join exhibition curator Axelle Liautaud for curator tours and a special art sale including special guest Malou Beauvoir of Modern Manbo. Find a special gift for your special someone at an exclusive sale of Haitian artisanal fashions, unique beadwork, flags, and more. Curator tour at 5 pm.
Thursday, February 13 | 6 – 9 pm: An n Pale with Curator Axelle Liautaud
Learn more about the significance of Vodou flags, their makers, and the vibrant history of these spiritual objects in conversation with Sacred Banners of Haitian Vodou’s curator Axelle Liautaud.
This exhibition & activations are part of HCX’s ongoing Vizyon Atistik programming.
Pop-Up Art Sale & Curator Tour: Saturday, February 8 & Sunday, February 9, 2025, | 1:00 – 6:00 PM
Exhibition on view: January 30 – March 9, 2025, | Thursday – Sunday, 1:00 – 6:00 PM; Wednesday by appointment
Location: Haiti Cultural Exchange | 558 St. Johns Pl, Brooklyn, NY 11238
