Haitian

Seymour Bottex

Haiti 1920-1998
Jesus Falls under the Cross 2003.0014

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When Seymour Étienne Bottex began to paint in 1955, his older brother, Jean-Baptiste, was already an accomplished artist. In 1961, Seymour joined the famous Centre d'Art in Port-au-Prince. Born in the town of Port Margot near Cap Haïtien, Bottex is sometimes compared to other artists from the north. Although he resided in New Jersey in his final years, he remained one of the "Old Masters" of Haitian painting. Jesus Falls under the Cross exemplifies Bottex's somewhat humorous depictions of biblical and historical themes. In this painting, the artist has brought the story of Christ's walk to Golgotha into contemporary Haitian life, complete with abusive soldiers and women perhaps on their way to or from the market. Known for his introduction of an element of humor, scholars have also discussed Bottex's characteristic use of color. Although Jean-Baptiste began painting first, and the two brothers depicted similar types of subject matter, it was Seymour who had the more successful career, exhibiting internationally after 1968.

 

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