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Haitian Creole is largely based on French with influences from Portuguese, Spanish, English, Taíno, and West African languages.
Haitian creole was not written, taught, or recognized as an official language until 1987 when it became part of the Haitian Constitution naming both Haitian Creole and French as the official languages. Creole is recognized as the only language that all Haitians hold in common.
The Color Groups at Camp are:
Zoranj
Wouj
Ble
Jòn
Vèt
Mov
Ajan
Greetings to use with each other – LOVE THESE!
Bon Maten (morning)
Bon Jou (day)
Bonswa (evening)
Alo
Orevwa! (goodbye)
N a we! (see you later!)
Wi (yes)
Non
Souple (please)
Mèsi, mèsi anpil (thank you, very much)
Pa gen pwoblem (no problem)
Deryen (it was nothing – you’re welcome)
Eskize mwen (excuse me)
Zanmi (friend)
“Haitian jungle paintings” originated from the Centre d’Art d’Haïti, an arts movement founded in 1944 known for or more formally known as “la peinture naïve.” Why blue tigers? There are theories – one being that artists drew from a collective ancestral memory, being descendants of West Africans enslaved by the French.
Pierre Maxo, who painted “Blue Tiger and Watermelon” seen here, was a student of the late Haitian master Gabriel Alix who passed away in 1998. Slices always painted two jungle cats.
Dèyè mòn gen mòn
Beyond mountains, more mountains.
Haitians use this poetic phrase in two ways: to say that there’s no end to obstacles, and also that there’s no end to opportunities.
Beaches, waterfalls, cloud forests, and pine tree-capped mountains used to abound in Haiti. Today, 4% of the forests are left, and much of the soil has washed into the sea. Yet “when one flies over Haiti what one sees is mostly gorgeous, bare-bone mountains.” One could look out at Haiti’s deforested mountains and see a glass half full. Dèyè mòn gen mòn.
Usually a challenge to get your child into Grace Art Camp, you still have the opportunity! Visit our website for info!
Hispaniolan Trogon - Piti piti, zwazo fè nich
Piti piti, zwazo fè nich. Little by little, the bird builds its nest.
Like most great proverbs, this Haitian proverb transcends time and humanity. Originally a french proverb that infused itself into Haitian culture, this concept rings true zoologically as well! Every culture stops and watches the bird . . . could this very act be our common thread through each society and even each human being?
About the artist – a gardener and horticulturist, Toussaint Saint Pierre started painting in 1972. His work is primarily a communion with birds, plants and flowers. Married to an ‘hounsi’ (one who is associated with a ‘lwa’ or spirit in the spiritual practice of Haitian Vodou) Saint Pierre painted the many birds and ‘lwas’ that would visit his garden.
Camp begins in four weeks and spaces are still available but dont wait too long to sign up your camper(s)!
Yep! The best kept secret just got recognized!Thank you for all of your support! This wonderful recognition comes at a time we are anticipating programming growth and who we serve in the community.
We also have spaces left for campers! Check out our website for more info.
