Celestin Faustin (Haitian,1948-1981)

Celestin Faustin (1948–1981) was a Haitian painter, Vodou priest, and one of the most visionary figures of modern Haitian art. Often considered a foundational Surrealist within Haitian painting, Faustin studied under Wilmino Domond before developing a haunting and poetic style of his own. His works combine surreal imagery, spiritual symbolism, and dense figurative compositions that explore personal anguish and the complex relationship between Vodou cosmology and inner experience. Art historian Gérald Alexis wrote in Peintres Haïtiens that Faustin was “too much of a virtuoso to be considered a primitive painter.” Faustin’s paintings have gained renewed international attention through exhibitions such as Life and Spirituality in Haitian Art (MOCA North Miami, 2022) and the 2022 Venice Biennale. Today he is regarded as one of the most powerful surreal voices in Haitian art. Explore his available works below.