25718: Karshan: (announce) Exhibit of Vodou Flags extended in downtown Brooklyn (fwd)

[Bob Corbett <corbetre@webster.edu>]

From: mkarshan@ftnetwork.com

Haiti's Ceremonial Banners

The extraordinary exhibit at GUMBO of beaded and sequined ceremonial banners from Haiti has been extended.  An overwhelming interest in this special collection of handmade Vodou "flags" from Haiti -- originally displayed as part of the Atlantic Avenue ArtWalk 2005 in early June --  has prompted a continuation of the exhibit at the GUMBO store, located at 493 Atlantic Avenue in downtown Brooklyn.

Enchanting, the flags vary in size and are typically colorful and vibrant bead and sequin combinations sewn on cloth or a rice sack, with a satin backing and border.  Each flag represents a spirit or combination of spirits from the West African-based Vodou religion of Haiti. Each spirit embodies unique characteristics, and plays a different role. Vodou flags, exhibited in ceremonies, serve to call down particular spirits who help practitioners with their personal problems and aspirations.

Vodou spirits are represented by either the image of the spirit, or the corresponding symbol or veve that represents it. Because slaves were prohibited from practicing Vodou, they adopted Catholic saints to represent the numerous spirits.

The exhibit includes flags made by Lalanne, Maxon, and others whose works have been included at museums, and in key articles and books. Haitian Vodou flags have been the focus of numerous museum exhibits, including the Sacred Arts of Vodou which toured museums such as the Smithsonian Institute and the Museum of Natural History.

All flags were purchased directly from artists in Haiti on behalf of Alternative Chance, a non-profit in Haiti.

GUMBO, 493 Atlantic Avenue between Nevins Street and Third Avenue, Brooklyn, New York.