Book Description

it awakens an appreciation for the imagination and creativity of the Haitian artists even in those whose provincialism would limit their preferences to the Western artistic tradition. Professor Leslie Desmangles Professor of Religion and International Studies Trinity University Modern Haitian art has for decades enthralled aficionados and general art lovers alike. In Arts and Religions of Haiti: How the Sun Illuminates Under Cover of Darkness, Haitian Scholar, LeGrace Benson presents a rich examination of the artists and arts of Haiti, and the complex history and religious practices of the Haitian people through the creative productions of its craftsmen, painters and sculptors. In departing from the usual Haitian Art or Haitian Religion books, Benson explains the relationship of Haitian art to the culture and uniquely describes the intersection, interrelation and influence of Judaism and Christianity as well as Taino and Islamic traces and the effects of both Masonic and Rosicrucian orders in shaping Vodou s belief system and rituals. In the face of mainstream media s titillating depictions of an imagined Voodoo, Benson presents Haiti s deeply spiritual artists bringing forth energetic visions of healing, liberation and tranquillity through fascinating art works which manifest the creativity and undaunted hope of this complex nation. Heralded by scholars as an important addition to Haitian Studies, Arts and Religions of Haiti: How the Sun Illuminates Under Cover of Darkness is the culmination of years of research and field study. It opens new areas of study and scholarly research and is a remarkable source of information on Haitian culture and religion but also an invaluable resource for art historians, anthropologists, historians and sociologists interested in Caribbean and African religions. "