Submitted by: Karen Joslin
For many people, Caribbean art means lively local scenes and picturesque seascapes. But in the case of Guadeloupe’s contemporary art scene, you may be surprised to discover a wealth of originality. While Guadeloupe’s artists do call upon island influences in creating their works, the results are often far from expected.
Koukara
Art professors Klodi Cancelier, Lucien Logane, and Jacques Lampcinado founded Koukara in 1988. Today it’s Guadeloupe’s major art movement. Meaning the Caribbean colors, Koukara emphasizes the unity of the Caribbean people. Its avant-garde aesthetic tends to be abstract or surreal, often with indigenous touches.
A key technique employed by Koukara artists is the Fibressences method, which creates mixed media pieces. Fibressences incorporates natural materials in artworks, such as bits of wood, coconut fibers, sugar cane, and sand. These elements add an interesting three-dimensional quality to the work, as well as creating a close connection to the environment. Paintings in vibrant and deep hues make up the majority of pieces, but there are some exceptions. Karine Gabon paints on hanging fabrics and other materials, with an earth-toned color palette that enhances her primitive motifs; she also creates abstract sculptures. And Klodi Cancelier’s paper series juxtaposed pieces of handmade papers painted with different colors and symbols.
Koukara’s popularity has steadily increased over the years. With many of Guadeloupe’s artists taking part in the movement, its style and ideals will likely continue to thrive in the coming years.
Other Contemporary Art
Aside from Koukara, Guadeloupe fosters the individual visions of other artists as well. Thierry Bergame’s surreal pop art displays a singular style and sense of humor. On the other hand, Dglas paints scenes with lighter tones and in a more naturalistic style, though he often includes fantastic elements like anthropomorphic animals and skeletons. Jean-Marc Hunt mainly uses objects like tools, pieces of wood, and even a sewing machine to create his sculptures. And while his paintings share a similar style with the Koukara group, his subject matter is generally quite different.
Even outside of Guadeloupe, its first-rate artists shine in the spotlight. They’ve participated in exhibits throughout the Caribbean, France, the U.S., Canada, and Costa Rica. In spite of its relatively small size, this island nation cultivates big talent.
About the Author: Writing for Segisys travel Web sites, Karen Joslin’s articles range from arts (
puertorico-guide.info/arts.and.entertainment/visual.arts/
) to activities (
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). 2006, Interactive Internet Websites, Inc. Article may only be reprinted if it is not modified in any way, and if all links remain live.
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