Dr. Jean Brierre’s Haitian art collection at Artspace exhibit

SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) — Over 60 years of Haitian art will be on display at Artspace.

The Art of Haiti: Dr. Jean Brierre’s Lifetime Collection opens at Artspace on Friday, June 27.

Collected by Dr. Brierre, a Haitian immigrant and physician, “The Art of Haiti” is a collection of works that display Haiti’s culture and heritage.

Born in Dame Marie, Haiti, in 1915, Dr. Brierre was a devoted Catholic. In 1974, the Pope honored him with membership in the Society of St. Gregory the Great. In 1980, the Pope honored him again with admittance to the Knights of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem. Dr. Brierre had a private medical practice for 54 years.

Haiti became the first independent nation in Latin America after gaining independence from France in 1804 through a slave rebellion. Despite gaining independence, many world powers refused to acknowledge Haiti, and France threatened to return with more forces unless reparations were paid. The slaves who fought and gained freedom were forced to pay reparations to their former enslavers.

The situation for Haiti continued to worsen. In 1914, concerned that Germany might gain influence in the area, the United States sent Marines to Haiti and removed $500,000 from the Haitian National Bank, effectively giving the United States control of Haiti’s finances. Over the next 19 years, the United States forced the election of a pro-American president, had him dissolve the legislature when they refused to let non-citizens own land, and instituted a system of racial segregation, press censorship, and forced labor.

Haiti’s unique history gives it unique art. Its culture combines colonialism, rebellion, and exploitation. Its influences are African, French, and American. The Art of Haiti opening is from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and will feature live music, appetizers, and a cash bar. The exhibit will run until August 9.