Overview:
The Clark Artwork Institute’s exhibition on Guillaume Lethière options Oath of the Ancestors, a portray highlighting Haiti’s combat for independence. The exhibition, additionally touring to the Louvre, highlights Lethière’s vital contributions to French artwork and his enduring legacy throughout the Caribbean diaspora.
Guillaume Lethière’s Oath of the Ancestors, a portray deeply intertwined with Haiti’s battle for independence, would be the centerpiece of the Clark Artwork Institute’s first-ever exhibition on the Caribbean-born artist. The portray, a strong image of Caribbean resistance, can be displayed till Oct. 14, 2024, earlier than the exhibition strikes to the Louvre in Paris.
The portray celebrates the alliance between Alexandre Pétion and Jean-Jacques Dessalines, two of Haiti’s founding revolutionaries, whose collaboration led to the nation’s declaration of independence in 1804. Regardless of logistical challenges because of present circumstances in Haiti, the portray stays a poignant reminder of the enduring legacy of Caribbean resilience and freedom.
“This portray is greater than only a murals; it’s a beacon of freedom for Haitians and your complete Caribbean group,” mentioned Esther Bell, co-curator of the exhibition. “By that includes Oath of the Ancestors, we purpose to spotlight the pivotal function that Haiti and the broader Caribbean performed in world historical past.”
Lethière, born in Guadeloupe in 1760, grew to become a outstanding determine in French artwork, navigating the tumultuous interval of the French Revolution and incomes accolades from figures like Napoleon’s brother, Lucien Bonaparte. But, regardless of his vital achievements, Lethière’s legacy has been largely ignored—till now.
“Guillaume Lethière’s journey from his childhood in Guadeloupe to the head of inventive success in France is an unbelievable story,” Bell mentioned. “Lethière was one of the revered painters of his time, but his affect and achievements will not be well-known at present. His appreciable physique of labor deserves to be studied and celebrated. We’re really excited to carry his artwork to gentle.”