Haitian artist, Ulrick Jean-Pierre, shared his creative perspective with the Los Angeles Sentinel Newspaper. Jean-Pierre paintings explore Haitian history. The art pieces range from Haitian historical figures to surrealist landscapes. His artwork has been featured at the Haitian National Museum sponsored by the United States Embassy of Haiti.
Los Angeles Sentinel Newspaper: How did you begin your artistic journey?
Ulrick Jean-Pierre: In 1977, when I migrated from Haiti to Philadelphia, I was exposed to a treasure of historical documents on Haiti history. That was the genesis of my historical passion. When I lived in Haiti, I use to create art based on the Haitian lifestyle of people. It was really inspiring to me. Haiti is roughly the size of Maryland but has a huge global conscious. It was a treasure for me to explore the history.
LAS: Your artwork has unique beauty. Describe your creative flow?
Jean-Pierre: As an artist, it is all about submission and research. I spend a lot of time reading and understanding what concept I’m about to endeavor. After spending time reading, I start the physical process. My art does not randomly pop up into existence. I don’t play with colors and hope something happens. I have an intention on what I want. The subject matter is something I think about first.
LAS: What do you want people to understand about Haiti’s global influence?
Jean-Pierre: They need to understand what Haiti has contributed to humanity. People only focus on Haiti when something terrible happens. Haiti was not always a third world country. Haiti was one of the richest lands, even richer than the original thirteen colonies of America. Haiti’s history helped shaped America. An example would be the Louisiana Purchase. I want people to understand that third world countries never began as poor. If Haiti didn’t suffer from constant exploitation, it would not be a third world country.
LAS: You have passion for your art. What would you say is your artistic purpose?
Jean-Pierre: My purpose is to let people understand that Haiti is more than what is presented on television. My mission is to pay tribute to everyone who loves humanity and everyone who protects humanity. We are all created in the image of God. We should promote unity within one another. That’s my goal, to promote unity and understanding.
To view Jean-Pierre’s artistic contributions, please visit ulrickdoc.com for more information.