Savain, Petion

SAVAIN, PETION
Petion Savain — Born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, on February 15, 1906 and according to various sources died in 1973 or 1975. Savain was the first Haitian artist to gain international acclaim for his work. He was the quintessential market painter. His artistic works known for their bright colors have been displayed in numerous art galleries around the world. He began painting in 1927 and in 1931 received a law degree. Through his life time he was an artist, lawyer, author, and teacher of the arts. He was also a student of mural and fresco techniques, tempera, wood sculpture.

Savain’s very personal style has been copied by many Haitian artists, but his pinks and purples are instantly recognizable, as is his use of semicircles and triangles in which painted figures crouch or sit. His work is on exhibition in the U.S., including the Corcoran Gallery and Grand Central and Riverside Museum. The opportunity to buy Savain’s work is rare, but an aesthetic joy as well as an invaluable investment.