Haitian Art and Vodou

Haiti has one of the richest and most distinctive cultures in the Americas, born of its extraordinary history as the world's first black republic, founded in 1804 through the only successful large-scale slave revolt in history, a source of immense national pride. This creative energy shines above all in Haitian art, whose vibrant, exuberant and colourful naïve painting and sculpture are celebrated worldwide, sold in galleries and markets and made from everything from canvas to recycled oil drums. Central to Haitian identity is Vodou, a profound and often misunderstood religion, far from its horror-film caricature, that blends West African and Catholic traditions, expressed in ritual, art and music, alongside the infectious rhythms of kompa.

The main sights

• Haitian art - the world-renowned vibrant naïve painting and sculpture.
• Vodou - the profound, misunderstood Afro-Haitian religion.
• The revolutionary heritage - the pride of the first free black republic.
• Kompa music - the infectious rhythms of Haitian music.

When to go

Year-round; Haitian art can be encountered in galleries and markets, and music and cultural life are ever-present, while Vodou, a living religion, is expressed in ceremonies and festivals through the year, to be approached only with genuine respect.

Good to know

As the vibrant soul of the world's first free black republic, from its world-renowned art to the profound tradition of Vodou and the fierce pride of its revolutionary heritage, Haitian culture is extraordinary and deeply moving.

Nearby

The galleries of Port-au-Prince, Jacmel and communities across the country are the places.