Over the years I’ve had the privilege of meeting many Haitian artists. One clearly stands out high above the rest - Claude Dambreville. Many years ago, while on a buying trip in Haiti, my partners and I were strolling through a well known art gallery in Petion-Ville. The gallery had an exhibit featuring Claude’s works. Though we never spoke with him, we were fortunate to catch a glimpse of the master as he looked over the exhibit. Years later we had the pleasure of visiting Claude and his lovely wife Bettyna in their home in the Dominican Republic and spent much time chatting. It was a wonderful opportunity in which we really got to know this man and I realized how much more than just an artist he is!

As a young man Claude studied accounting but that never offered him a vehicle to channel his passion as did writing or painting. And so he moved forward with his two “loves” and has become a master of both. He is internationally known for his market scenes and silhouetted women. His use of shadow, light and contrasting color are his trademarks; many times mimicked by other artists.

Claude is also the author of novels, newspaper and magazine articles. Presently he has a recurring article in an online Spanish newspaper - Puertoplatadigital. Yet there is something else that sets Claude Dambreville apart from others and that is his kind spirit and gentle soul that emanate from his being. His love for his wife their children and grandchildren is ardent and evident in conversation. In his own words, “they say that Sagitarians are generally happy and always in a good mood. That describes me perfectly. I always look on the bright side of things.”

If you’re thinking of traveling to Haiti don’t miss out on a stay at the wonderful hotel, the Villa Creole. This incredibly beautiful hotel has been welcoming guests for over a half a century. Set in the hills of Petion-Ville, the Villa Creole is a gem. As you enter the open air lobby, filled with lush greens, you are greeted by a friendly and helpful staff. The rooms are decorated with lovely Haitian furniture and Haitian art. They have been recently remodeled. In-room internet access and wireless access in public areas have been added. Also, they’ve enlarged and improved their fitness center.

Some things are the same and just as wonderful as during our latest visit. The restaurant offers fine Haitian cuisine. Breakfast is served poolside under the magnificent almond tree. But the one thing that makes the Villa Creole stand above its competitors is its incredibly warm and attentive staff. From the waiters, receptionists and bellman to the housekeeping and grounds crew you will not find kinder, friendlier assistance anywhere.

So if you are making travel plans and will be in the Petion-Ville area make sure to arrange a stay at the Villa Creole.

We all know that an experience with Haiti, its people, its culture and its art becomes addictive. There is something so special that one cannot walk away untouched. And so we collect until our walls are so full that they can’t possibly handle any other paintings; that is until we find another ‘must have’!

As collectors of Haitian art, our thoughts and interests go far beyond just the art. We love hearing about the artists and what might be happening in the country. We love sharing our collections with other collectors.We love talking about what life was like in this world of Haitian art years ago and musing over time spent with famous artists and gallery owners.

So, we’d like to open this space up for any and all kinds of discussion, comments or anecdotes, with one exception – please, no politics. We all know that Haiti is going through terrible times right now. While we wish for peace and stability for Haiti, we believe that this is not the place to solve Haiti’s problems.

We look forward to hearing from all of you and what you have to say. Please keep it civil and courteous even if you disagree!