 113. Bourgeois Dance c1987 (24x30)  148. Bawan Samdi_ c1995 (20x24) |
Pierre–Joseph
was Gérard Valcin's step–brother (some
authorities say 'half–brother).
Their arts are strikingly different. Both were 'primitives.' But where Gérard was a precise and careful draftsman, Pierre–Joseph was more a 'naïf impressionist.' (One writer has called him 'the prince of the naïfs.') Their lifestyles also varied. Gèrard was a free spirit; Pierre–Joseph was a family man. Gérard was financially successful; his art permitted him to buy a small, but nice and airy suburban house. Pierre–Joseph lived in a depressing Port–au–Prince hovel without electricity or running water. A stonemason and auto mechanic until middle age, Pierre–Joseph was encouraged to paint by his step–brother and by Prêféte Duffaut. He quickly developed his own style. (The brothers' arts may be compared directly by clicking the Bourgeois Dance thumbnail.) A gentle and modest man, Pierre–Joseph refused to trade on his brother's fame and success. During the first half of his painting career he signed his works 'Pierre Joseph,' only later adding 'Valcin.' Bourgeois Dance and Mariage are characteristic works: the artist delighted in everyday scenes. Baron Samedi isn't typical: Pierre–Joseph rarely painted either vodun or violence. I knew Pierre–Joseph Valcin and liked him a lot. |
161. Mariage |
