In keeping with Haitian tradition, it is good to bring something back for the house and the friends after an outing. Even if you are just coming from downtown, you will be asked "sa ou pote ?"(what did you bring? )
In this section, I will tell you what souvenirs can be found in the regions I have visited. But beware, in every Haitian lies a sleeping artist, so don't rely solely on the informations given. Because, at any time, in any place you might unexpectedly discover a wonderfully talented artist. In Haiti the precarious living conditions give birth to ingenuous treasures that most of the time only a foreigner's eyes can discover…

Paper Maché Mask
Everyone agrees that "papier maché" is Jacmel's specialty. It is also possible to find there superb naïve praintings, beautiful craft, and even some wooden sculptures…

Embroidery
Cayes and Camp Perrin are well know for their magnificent work.

Cut Iron
Croix-des-Bouquets is reputed for its cut-iron pieces. The artisans' imagination and know how will give you much to see and take home unique pieces in cut-iron

Basketwork
Beautiful basketwork can be found in Cap-Haitien and throughout the South. Weaved with natural fibers by skillful hands, these delicate objects are quite useful : hats, bags, fans, flowerpot holder and so on

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Pottery
Earthernware jugs and other pottery pieces are found in the North, particularly Cap-Haitien.

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Ceramics
There is a considerable number of ceramic workers in Kenscoff. There are certainly not the only ones. Desmangles in Turgeau, in mid Port-au-Prince makes some superb ceramic pieces. I visited his studio, his work is magnificent.

For move details write me at : dimwen @ rapadou.com

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