Tradition/Innovation : Carole Demesmin

Tradition Innovation: American Masterpieces of Southern Craft and Traditional Art

Carole Demesmin
Hannadale, FL
Spiritualist Educator
Traditional Artist

About the Artist

Carole Demesmin is a multi-talented Haitian artist and Vodou priestess. Like many religions, Vodou has ceremonial artifacts that are masterfully handcrafted. Demesmin went back to Haiti to learn her culture and discovered the ceremonial pakets kongo. Revered by the Haitian community of South Florida, Carole Demesmin is also a performer and community activist.

Websites

http://www.historical-museum.org
http://www.hmsf.org
http://www.browardpalmbeach.com

Experience the Exhibit

Metals Gallery

Cultural Practices Gallery

Paket Kongo (yellow), 2007
Feathers, satin, beading, ribbon
20" x 6" x 6"

Paket Kongo (small, green), 2007
Feathers, satin, beading, ribbon
11" x 6" x 6"

Paket Kongo (large, green), 2007
Feathers, satin, beading, ribbon
13" x 6" x 6"

Photo by Luis Quiles, 2007

Demesmin on pakets

Demesmin constructs pakèts as gifts for friends when requested and for her own private use. “It’s our job to pass on life,” she states “That’s why we make pakèts.”

Demesmin’s sense of purpose

A passionate advocate for her country and her people, Demesmin also wants to educate the rest of the world about the rich heritage of Haiti, a blend of Awarak and African cultures. “I think of myself as an ambassador for Haitian culture. My mission is to make the world see Haiti from an educated Haitian perspective”