Center for Haitian Studies, health and human services
35th year anniversary Gala
"passing the torch"
The Sponsor
The Center for Haitian Studies, Health and Human Services extends its warmest greetings to all esteemed guests and art enthusiasts alike, and welcomes you for an exquisite showcase of creativity and cultural significance.
It is with great pleasure that The Center for Haitian Studies, Health and Human Services, in collaboration with Lobey Art & Travel and Mr. V the Artist, presents to you the art exhibition titled "Passing the Torch" on this Saturday, March 25th, 2023 during The Center's 35th Year Anniversary Gala, at the prestigious Florida International University, Kovens Center.
We are thrilled to have you join us on this momentous occasion and witness the inspiring works of art that embody the rich heritage of our community.
"passing the torch"
Voltaire Charles Marc
The Featured Artist
Voltaire CHARLES-MARC, also known as Mr. V the Artist, was born in March 1975 and has a wonderful son named Tyree V. CHARLES-MARC. Voltaire has cherished memories of spending time with his cousin Reginald GEORGES during vacations. The two shared a passion for drawing, and they would spend hours lost in their art. As they grew older, their paths diverged, with Reginald pursuing a career in Art at ENARTS, the National School for Arts in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, and Voltaire opting to study Computer Sciences instead at INUQUA Institut Universitaire Quisqueya Amerique.
In 2006, while planning a family visit, Reginald was inspired to revisit their shared love of drawing. He brought a canvas, and a friend brought black and white paint. Reginald and his friend encouraged Voltaire to try his hand at painting for the first time. The result was stunning: an exquisite portrait of Voltaire and his sister-in-law. This success motivated Voltaire to paint more, and by 2007, he was creating historical portraits and iconic figures. By researching the context of the individuals he painted, he began incorporating historical references into his paintings, which evolved into the collage-like style that defines his school of Art, I-I-S-P (Immortalized Images Story Paintings).
Alongside painting, Voltaire also discovered a love of woodworking at his architect brother's shop. His body of work explores topics and subjects related to Haiti, his native homeland. Both of Voltaire's parents were also involved in the art world, with a focus on "Haute Couture". Voltaire's affinity for world culture and history shines through in his paintings, making them appealing to people of all backgrounds and origins. In addition to exhibiting his work throughout the world and Haiti, Voltaire regularly invites art students to his studio. He shares his space with five other artists known collectively as the "Famous Art Creation", providing students with visual aids to complement their textbook and classroom lectures.
Romuald Blanchard
The Advocate
Lobey Art & Travel is a dynamic network of artists and entrepreneurs committed to promoting the arts, advocating for artists, and supporting art organizations and community agencies. We are dedicated to promoting the arts in all their forms and to supporting the artists who bring them to life.
Through our advocacy efforts, we aim to create a more supportive environment for artists, one that recognizes their contributions and the vital role they play in society. We also work to support art organizations and community agencies, helping them to create meaningful connections and foster greater understanding among individuals and communities. personal change and make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.
Lobey Art & Travel also includes a travel component that allows for unique and immersive experiences in art and culture. Our travel programs are designed to offer a deeper understanding of the world around us by engaging with local artists and communities, exploring their cultures and traditions, and experiencing the transformative power of the arts. Through these experiences, we aim to inspire personal growth and change, providing opportunities for travelers to expand their perspectives and develop a greater appreciation for global diversity.
"passing the torch"
Orchestra Etcetera - 2021 / 2022
"Orchestra Etcetera" and "Health is Wealth" showcase a remarkable and daring installation that stands as a testament to the unbreakable bond between art and environmental sustainability. Crafted entirely from recycled materials, such as wood, steel, fabrics, nails, cable, extension cords, old plates, cookies boxes, bottle tops, and old tree branches, this installation embodies the tremendous potential of creativity and ingenuity.
The installation serves as a powerful reminder that waste can be transformed into something beautiful and useful. Through the meticulous use of recycled materials, the artist behind Orchestra Etcetera has created a stunning piece that challenges our preconceived notions of art and sustainability. It is a bold and innovative expression of the possibilities that exist when we harness our imagination and our commitment to the environment.
Health is Wealth - 2023
The installation invites us to reflect on our relationship with the environment and encourages us to take responsibility for our actions. It is an inspiring example of how art can be a vehicle for change, inspiring us to rethink our relationship with the planet and to find new ways to live in harmony with the world around us. This installation is a tribute to the transformative power of creativity and resourcefulness, and it stands as a testament to the incredible things we can achieve when we work together towards a common goal.
"passing the torch"
The Train of thoughts - 2023
58x58 - Acrylic on Canvas
The painting is a celebration of the train system and its historical and cultural significance. The artwork depicts not only the physical trains themselves, but also the many technological innovations and advancements that have made them possible and contributed to their development over time.
Through its visual representation, the painting prompts us to contemplate the role of trains in shaping the modern world and the ways in which they have facilitated economic growth and development. It invites us to consider the interconnectedness of our global society and the importance of transportation and infrastructure in enabling progress.
Furthermore, the painting highlights the ongoing relevance of trains in contemporary society, despite the rise of alternative modes of transportation. By emphasizing their enduring significance, the artwork encourages us to recognize the importance of preserving and investing in our transportation infrastructure for future generations.
Overall, the painting serves as a powerful testament to the role of trains in shaping our world and the continued significance of this mode of transportation in modern society.
"passing the torch"
saxophone -2022
This installation consists of a saxophone and two guitars, which have been created entirely from recycled materials. The artist has ingeniously repurposed and transformed discarded items, including various kinds of metal, wood, fabrics, cables, extension cords, old plates, cookie boxes, bottle tops, and even old tree branches, into a new work of art.
By utilizing recycled materials, the artwork showcases the immense potential and transformative power of creativity and resourcefulness. It brilliantly demonstrates how even ordinary and discarded items can be given a new life and new purpose through the power of imagination and creativity.
Guitar I - 2021
The artwork also serves as a poignant reminder that there is inherent value in the things we might typically throw away, and that they can be harnessed to create something beautiful and meaningful. Moreover, the piece celebrates the ingenuity and creativity of the human spirit, as well as the importance of sustainable and responsible resource use.
Guitar II - 2021
Overall, the artwork offers a thought-provoking commentary on the potential of waste materials and celebrates the endless possibilities of human creativity, innovation, and resourcefulness. It serves as a timely reminder of the urgent need to rethink our approach to resource use and waste management and offers hope for a more sustainable and responsible future.
"passing the torch"
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Masque-2022
This installation consists of a mask and a guitar, which have been created entirely from recycled materials. The artist has ingeniously repurposed and transformed discarded items, including various kinds of metal, wood, fabrics, cables, extension cords, old plates, cookie boxes, bottle tops, and even old tree branches, into a new work of art.
By utilizing recycled materials, the artwork showcases the immense potential and transformative power of creativity and resourcefulness. It brilliantly demonstrates how even ordinary and discarded items can be given a new life and new purpose through the power of imagination and creativity.
Guitar III - 2022
The artwork also serves as a poignant reminder that there is inherent value in the things we might typically throw away, and that they can be harnessed to create something beautiful and meaningful. Moreover, the piece celebrates the ingenuity and creativity of the human spirit, as well as the importance of sustainable and responsible resource use.
Overall, the artwork offers a thought-provoking commentary on the potential of waste materials and celebrates the endless possibilities of human creativity, innovation, and resourcefulness. It serves as a timely reminder of the urgent need to rethink our approach to resource use and waste management and offers hope for a more sustainable and responsible future.
"passing the torch"
Get Up, Stand Up - 2021
32x44 - Acrylic on Canvas
The people of Haiti have a rich history and a deep commitment to hard work and using their gifts to help others. They have overcome the chains of slavery and oppression to establish their own country, where unity and strength are cherished values. The principles of liberty, equality, and brotherhood are deeply ingrained in their culture, and they are determined to uphold these values. They have made great progress in other countries, demonstrating their resilience and determination to move forward together.
Despite the challenges of violence, corruption, and other issues, the people of Haiti remain committed to progress, education, and independence. They honor the freedom that their ancestors fought so hard to achieve, and they recognize that their power lies in their unity and strength. The great monuments of Haiti, such as the citadel, are a testament to the greatness of the Haitian people.
It is important for the people of Haiti to remember their values and to put respect and honor at the center of their families, friendships, neighbors, and businesses.
Their voices are powerful and limitless, and they have the ability to continue to fight for freedom and justice around the world. Their history has been written down for future generations to continue the fight, and their nature and values will guide them towards a brighter future. Let us celebrate the Haitian people and their enduring commitment to progress and unity.
Pan-Americanism - 2014
40x30 - Acrylic on Canvas
Pan-Americanism is a movement that seeks to promote and strengthen cooperation, unity, and cultural exchange between the countries of North, South, and Central America. In the context of art, Pan-Americanism has been an important influence on artistic movements in the Americas, particularly in the early 20th century.One of the key artistic expressions of Pan-Americanism was the mural movement, which flourished in Mexico in the 1920s and 1930s. Muralists such as Diego Rivera, David Alfaro Siqueiros, and José Clemente Orozco created large-scale public murals that celebrated the history, culture, and struggles of the people of Mexico and the Americas. These murals often featured themes of social justice, indigenous heritage, and anti-imperialism, reflecting the political ideals of Pan-Americanism.
In addition to the mural movement, other artistic movements and styles also emerged in the Americas in the early 20th century that reflected the ideals of Pan-Americanism. For example, the Brazilian Modernist movement, led by artists such as Tarsila do Amaral and Oswald de Andrade, sought to create a distinctly Brazilian art that incorporated elements of both European and indigenous culture. Similarly, the Harlem Renaissance in the United States celebrated African American culture and identity, while also seeking to establish connections with other cultures of the Americas.
Overall, Pan-Americanism has had a significant impact on the art of the Americas, inspiring artists to create works that reflect the region's rich cultural heritage and promote a sense of unity and cooperation across national borders.
Apokalips - (ayiti 12 Janvye 2010) - 2010
44x86 - Acrylic on Canvas
January 12, 2010 was a tragic day in the history of Haiti. At 4:53 pm local time, a massive earthquake with a magnitude of 7.0 struck the country, it centered approximately 16 miles west of the capital city of Port-au-Prince and was followed by a series of powerful aftershocks.
The earthquake caused extensive damage to buildings and infrastructure in Port-au-Prince and other cities, including hospitals, schools, and government buildings. The death toll from the earthquake was estimated to be around 200,000, with many more injured or left homeless.
"passing the torch"
The Last Stand - 2023
40x40 - Acrylic on Canvas
Mikaben, whose real name was Michael Benjamin, was a Haitian musician who was best known for his work as a singer and guitarist in the konpa band CaRiMi. Mikaben was widely regarded as one of the most talented musicians of his generation, and his music was beloved by fans around the world.
Tragically, Mikaben died in 2020 while performing with CaRiMi in Paris. According to reports, he collapsed on stage and was rushed to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead. His passing was a shock to the Haitian music community and to fans around the world who had been inspired by his music and his commitment to promoting Haitian culture.
Despite the tragic circumstances of his death, Mikaben's legacy lives on through his music and his many fans. He was a true ambassador for Haitian culture and a talented musician who brought joy and inspiration to people around the world.
Danse Singuliere - 2014
24x30 - Acrylic on Canvas
La Danse Singulière est un terrain de jeu, d’improvisation, et de voyage.
L’écoute corporelle de la musique conduit le mouvement, le geste, au plus près du rapport que chacun entretient avec la danse : rapport intime, artistique, sportif, créatif, ou même si on pense ne pas savoir danser du tout.
La scène devient un espace d’exploration pour chacun, où émerge une danse aventure, découverte, un voyage
en liberté.
Credit: L'Institut Singulier
L'Institut singulier – Accompagnement et créativité Improvisation / théâtre / clown / danse
Danse Plurielle - 2016
30x40 - Acrylic on Canvas
"Danse plurielle" recognizes the diversity of dance and the way in which it can bring together different perspectives and approaches. It emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and openness to different ways of moving, expressing oneself, and creating meaning through dance.
In practice, "danse plurielle" can take many forms. For example, it might involve the fusion of different dance styles, such as contemporary dance and traditional folk dance, or the incorporation of music from different cultures into a dance performance. It might also involve collaborative choreography, in which dancers with different backgrounds and training work together to create a piece that reflects their diverse experiences and perspectives.
Overall, "danse plurielle" is a term that celebrates the richness and complexity of dance as an art form, and encourages dancers and choreographers to explore and embrace a wide range of influences and approaches in their work.
Center for Haitian Studies, health and human services
35th year anniversary Gala - Art Show
"passing the torch"
The Immortalized Images Story Painting
The Immortalized Images Story Painting is a unique form of art that blends various art movements and techniques to create a visual storytelling experience. It typically involves using a clear image or a series of images that are accompanied by text, quotes, and symbols to convey a message or tell a story. This new school of art is easily recognizable, timeless, and engages both art lovers and newcomers alike.
What sets Immortalized Images Story Painting apart is its ability to challenge people to reflect on their experiences and memories, inviting them to see the world around them in a different light. By using symbols and text, the artist can create layers of meaning within the art that encourages viewers to look beyond the surface level and explore the deeper themes and ideas presented.
This art form is a powerful tool of change, as it can be used to create awareness and bring attention to important social issues or historical events. It can also be used to honor individuals or groups that have made a significant impact on society or to celebrate cultural traditions and heritage.
Overall, Immortalized Images Story Painting is a dynamic and innovative form of art that captures the essence of a specific moment in time while also challenging viewers to think critically about the world around them. Its unique blend of art movements and techniques makes it a versatile and universally understood art form that has the potential to create meaningful change in the world.