Serving the Lwas: Vodou Gods of Haiti

Curated by Carine Fabius

In some parts of Africa, Vodun refers to spirit or an unseen and mysterious power, which can influence human lives at any time. In Haiti, Vodou is a major religion that blends the worship of African deities with the saints of Catholicism, brought to the island by the French in the 1600s. God plays an important part in Haitian life, and many see the Vodou gods, or lwas, as diverse representations of the Almighty. They are thought to be powerful spirits able to endow believers with spiritual and physical blessings or troubles depending on their loyalty, obedience and devotion. To that end, serving the lwas is of utmost importance, and the term most often used by Vodou practitioners (or Vodouisants) when referring to their religious practice. The Vodou pantheon consists of hundreds of lwas, all with human characteristics, likes and dislikes. At a Vodou ceremony — a closed, private affair — the lwas are invoked by a mambo (Vodou priestess) or an oungan (Vodou priest) within the confines of an ounfò (Vodou temple). Prayers, rhythmic drumming, dancing, singing and appropriate offerings such as animal sacrifices, certain foods, liquor and other known desired objects are used to entice the lwas to the ceremony. The lwas are invoked for many reasons — for advice, for healing purposes, as overseers of justice, and to bestow aid on many levels.

This exhibition focuses on the most oft-invoked lwas, as depicted on contemporary Vodou flags (or drapos) and cut-out metal work. Over the years, drapos have become highly collectible works of art, and many artists create them for that purpose; others are specially made and reserved for ritual use and are considered potent sacred objects. During ceremonies, flags serve as a call to the lwas, as powerful representations of the gods in question, and as tools to salute the Vodou deities. They are also draped across initiates' backs as they dance so that their glitter will further entice the lwas to visit. Under some flags, offerings known to please those lwas have been arranged in a way we hope will make them happy!