CENTRAL FINE

 Frankétienne

Ultravocal

September 5th-October-October 3rd

Opening reception: September 8th, 6-8 pm.

Central Fine presents Ultravocal a presentation of works by the distinguished Haitian artist Frankétienne.

“…As the curator of this exhibition, I am honored to showcase the work of one of the most influential figures in Caribbean art and literature. Ultravocal, named after Frankétienne’s seminal literary work, captures his extraordinary ability to merge language, figuration, and abstraction into a compelling narrative. The works selected for this exhibition offer an exploration of Frankétienne’s skill in blending text, vibrant figures, and abstract forms, creating a dialogue that goes beyond conventional communication.

Frankétienne is a pivotal figure in Haitian culture, not only for his visual art but also for his foundational role in the Spiralist movement—a literary and artistic philosophy he developed alongside René Philoctète and Jean-Claude Fignolé. Spiralism, which reflects the dynamic and multifaceted nature of reality, is central to Frankétienne’s artistic and literary practice and has significantly influenced my own approach to art. Frankétienne’s work is deeply intertwined with postcolonial theory, exploring the complexities of identity, language, and power in a postcolonial world.

His close friendship with Aimé Césaire, a leading figure in the Négritude Movement, further underscores his commitment to addressing the legacies of colonialism. Through his art and writing, Frankétienne engages with these themes, offering a critical reflection on the historical and ongoing impacts of colonialism in the Caribbean and beyond. Beyond his contributions to Spiralism, Frankétienne is celebrated as the author of Dezafi, the first novel written entirely in Haitian Creole, marking a transformative moment in Haitian literature.

His interdisciplinary approach, integrating the visual and the verbal, has left an indelible mark on contemporary art and literature worldwide. Frankétienne is also a renowned playwright, with plays such as Pèlen Tèt and Melovivi ou Le Piège being cornerstones of Haitian theater. His other seminal works include Ultravocal, Mûr à crever, and Les Affres d’un Défi, each contributing profoundly to the discourse on identity, language, and resistance.

Frankétienne’s influence extends far beyond the Caribbean. He has been honored as a Commander of the Order of Arts and Letters by the French government, recognizing his outstanding contributions to global culture. His work continues to resonate, challenging and inspiring new generations of artists, writers, and thinkers.

Frankettiene’s work has been exhibited internationally at Tufts University, Boston; the  Institut Français d’Haïti, Port Au prince; the International Library Klébert, Strasbourg; St Pierre Museum, Haïti; among others. This is his first solo show at CENTRAL FINE.

 Tomm El-Saieh