Wilson Bigaud (Prominent Haitian Artist b.1931)

Description

Wilson Bigaud, the celebrated Haitian artist, left an indelible mark on the world of art with his unique and captivating works. Born in Port-au-Prince in 1931 (though the exact year remains a point of contention), he embarked on his artistic journey as a sculptor in clay. His talents were nurtured by the influential Dewitt Peters, who introduced him to the Centre D’Art, where he honed his skills under the guidance of the accomplished artist Maurice Borno.

At the age of 18, Bigaud’s artistic journey took a pivotal turn. He joined the Centre d’Art, where he initially showcased his remarkable talent in densely detailed drawings. His dedication to mastering color and creating a sense of volume through light and shadow soon became evident. Notably, at the tender age of 21, he created the magnificent painting “Terrestrial Paradise,” a masterpiece that won him second prize at an international art exhibition in Washington, D.C. This remarkable achievement earned him a place in the permanent collection of the Museum of Modern Art in New York, alongside other esteemed Haitian artists such as Gourgue, Philomé Obin, and Georges Liautaud.

In 1951, Bigaud was chosen as one of the few artists to contribute to the iconic murals adorning the Episcopal Cathedral of Sainte Trinité in Port-au-Prince, a tragedy that was destroyed in the devastating earthquake of January 12. His masterpiece, “The Marriage at Cana,” exhibited many of the themes he had explored in his earlier works, infusing Christian subjects with vivid details from Vodou rituals. Bigaud’s art was a reflection of his life and culture, portraying the vibrant festivals of carnival and Rara in colorful and dynamic detail. His love for lush details and golden hues was evident in his “Self-portrait in the Carnival Costume of the Fancy Indian.”

Bigaud’s genre scenes were rooted in reality, characterized by their materiality and respect for the principles of naturalism. He skillfully portrayed the rituals and mysteries of Vodou as he had observed them, offering viewers a unique glimpse into the rich tapestry of Haitian culture.

Despite his undeniable talent and early success, Bigaud faced a prolonged battle with severe depression that halted his artistic endeavors from 1957 to 1962. Some believe that he never fully regained the brilliance of his earlier work, attributing his creative hiatus to a pact he may have made with a houngan, a Vodou priest, in a desperate bid to preserve his artistic gift.

Wilson Bigaud’s legacy endures through his art, which remains an integral part of the finest Haitian art collections worldwide. His paintings provide a window into the soul of Haiti, capturing the subtleties of its culture with every brushstroke on canvas. Though his life was marked by personal struggles, his artistic contributions continue to inspire and captivate art enthusiasts, ensuring that his name will forever be synonymous with the world of Haitian painting. Wilson Bigaud’s story is a testament to the enduring power of art and its ability to transcend personal tribulations to speak to the hearts and minds of generations to come.