It's all about color, vibrancy, the fullness of life, even in the face of hardship and suffering. We're talking about Haitian art. Take a look and you encounter not only the beauty of this world-famous Caribbean folk art style but the life-affirming spirit of a noble and resilient people.
One of the most dazzling displays of Haitian painting outside of Haiti itself is fortunately found at the Galeria Elin (Av. Meriño Nos. 203 & 256; Tel: (809) 688-7100), stretching from floor to ceiling, canvases in all sizes depict scenes from contemporary Haitian rural and urban life in vivid hue and detail. The range of style of the leading Haitian artists is distinct and those on show here include most prominent names as Remy Gabriel, Lily Hanson, Patrick Gonzales, and Ronald Moïse. The canvases are hung in close proximity on every wall, creating a fantastic collage on two floors that you could spend hours feasting your eyes and soul upon.
Proprietor and artist Franck Becker will proudly show you the extraordinary array of art which is housed in two buildings that are almost across the street from one other. It may seem ironic that you have to go to Santo Domingo rather than Port-au-Prince to find some of the finest Haitian artwork at the best prices, making this establishment one of the most unusual bargains in the Colonial Zone.