Sandra Dessalines, creating to testify her freedom
Sandra Dessalines is a self-taught Haitian painter, sculptor, and visual artist. She was born in Port-au-Prince but grew up in the commune of Carrefour. Today, she is an ambassador who brings Haitian culture to life through her art all over the world, particularly in France, where she has lived for more than a decade.
An Honorable Journey
Sandra Dessalines trained as an agricultural engineer at Quisqueya University in Port-au-Prince and continued her studies at INSA in Toulouse, France. Her official entry into the world of art came after the devastating earthquake that ravaged her homeland, Haiti, on January 12, 2010. This event pushed her towards art, allowing her to reach the level she occupies today.
In terms of recognition, Sandra Dessalines has made a name for herself, with her original style, inspired by her native Haiti, gaining increasing recognition from major event organizers in Paris. In October 2024, she even received the public prize at Lmh Concept Events Art and Design for their 10th anniversary in Paris. This award perfectly reflects the originality of her work and her ability to touch people’s hearts through her creation.
Sandra Dessalines identifies as a visual storyteller, expressing herself through her work to capture the essence of her identity and Haitian roots. "Through my paintings and installations, I aim to capture the essence of my identity, my Haitian roots, and the stories that have shaped my people." This artistic approach is a profound reflection on memory, history, and emotions, a way for Sandra to fully exist in a world where the voices of women, especially Black women, are often marginalized. Through her artwork, Sandra demonstrates that Haïti still has much to surprise and inspire the rest of the world with its cultural richness.
Since her childhood, art has been a refuge and a means of expression for Sandra, allowing her to convey her emotions without barriers. Her artistic journey naturally led her to sculpture, a universal language. "Sculpture became a universal language for me, a means of expression where I could transcribe my emotions, struggles, and hopes without barriers." Sculpture, thus, became an act of resistance, a testimony, and a celebration of her Haitian heritage, a way to honor her history and claim her freedom. However, the road has not always been easy for a Black Haitian woman in a male-dominated field. Sandra faces daily obstacles, particularly the Western gaze that often reduces Black women’s art to a mere "exotic aesthetic." "Being a Black woman in the art world means constantly proving your legitimacy." As a Haitian, she also fights against the marginalization of her culture, which is often seen through the lens of reductive stereotypes. These challenges only strengthen her determination to continue her artistic work with strength and conviction.
Among her inspirations, Sandra mentions figures such as the French sculptor Rémy Trottereau, whose resilience and personal commitment particularly impressed her. "I draw inspiration from many figures, particularly French sculptor Rémy Trottereau for his resilience and personal commitment to his art." She also speaks of the raw energy of Marc Petit and the timeless work of Ousmane Saw, who was able to capture the soul of the Black world. These influences nourish her work and allow her to give voice to her deep convictions.
The materials Sandra uses in her creations also reflect her cultural identity. She primarily works with oil paints, but she is not afraid to experiment with mixed materials, integrating fabrics, paper, and organic elements. "I also love experimenting with mixed materials, sometimes integrating fabric, paper, and organic elements that recall the richness of Haitian culture." This search for materials reflects a desire to root her art in the reality of her people and anchor her work in the foundations of her culture.
Haitian Identity and History at the Heart of Her Art
The artist’s works explore powerful themes related to Haiti’s history, Black identity, and the condition of women. Sandra also addresses subjects such as exile, resilience, and the spirituality of Vodou, which is an integral part of Haitian culture. "My work explores themes related to Haiti’s history, Black identity, collective memory, and the condition of women." Each sculpture becomes a fragment of history, an invitation to reflect on our past while imagining a fairer future. As a direct descendant of Jean-Jacques Dessalines (father of the Haitian nation), her country’s history holds a central place in her creative process. The legacy of the Haitian revolution, carried by her ancestor, is a source of strength and artistic responsibility for her. "Being a descendant of Dessalines means carrying within me the legacy of a revolutionary, a man who changed the course of history." Sandra feels the duty to keep this history alive through her art and remind the world of the dignity and strength of the Haitian people.
The Current Situation of Haïti and a Message of Hope
The current situation in Haïti is a source of pain but also hope for Sandra. Despite the deep crisis her country is undergoing, she sees a committed youth that refuses to submit. "Haïti is going through a deep political and humanitarian crisis, but I also see a youth standing tall, artists, intellectuals who refuse to give up." Through her art, Sandra bears witness to this resilience and strength that characterize the Haitian people.
Finally, for young Haitians who dream of following in her footsteps, Sandra offers a message of hope and determination: "I would tell them to never let anyone tell them their art has no value." She encourages them to create without fear, to tell their own stories, and to understand that art has the power to change mentalities. The freedom won by Haitian ancestors, according to Sandra, must be preserved through creation. "Our ancestors won their freedom by force, now it’s up to us to preserve it through creation." In each piece she creates, Sandra Dessalines claims her freedom, the freedom to be an artist serving her history, her people, and her deep convictions. For her, sculpture is not just an act of creation, but a powerful testimony of the struggle and resilience that so clearly define her homeland, Haiti.
First black nation to free itself from slavery and gain independence from France in 1804 and influenced other liberation movements around the world, inspiring struggles for freedom and equality.
Natural beauty
Haïti is blessed with spectacular natural landscapes, including white sand beaches, mountains and rich biodiversity.
Heritage
Haïti has a rich historical heritage, including sites like the Citadelle Laferrière and the Sans-Souci Palace, listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Culture
Haïti has a rich and diverse culture, influenced by African, European and indigenous elements. Haitian music, dance, art and cuisine are celebrated around the world.
