Gerald Michael Lafontant began painting at the age of twelve, practicing his skills by helping the elders build floats for the carnival festivals. By 1968 painting had become his passion. Working with oils, he experimented with styles, using the natural landscape of his native town as an inspiration.

In 1971 he started showing his work in the Nader Galleries in Port-au-Prince. His style at that time was very similar to the works being done by Prefete Duffaut so he continued to experiment with different techniques to create a style that would better define his works. As a result, his works display a variety of styles that compliment the subject matter. The landscapes of his native town show a fanciful, charming approach to the beautiful seaside town of his youth. On the other hand, he paints the water scenes in bold strokes, large blocks of color, giving strength to the small boats that venture out to sea.

His works grace many of the businesses in Jacmel as well as Port-au-Prince. In addition to working as professional artist, Lafontant has been working as the only carnival float maker in Jacmel since 1968. His paintings have been displayed in the the Dominican Republic, Martinique and Florida.