Artisanat en Fête returns with 19th edition in Port-au-Prince

PORT-AU-PRINCE — Artisanat en Fête returned this year for its 19th edition, bringing together artisans and the public at the Frères de l’Instruction Chrétienne school in Pétion-Ville for a two-day exhibition focused on craftsmanship, sales and cultural exchange.

Held Dec. 20–21, the event was organized by Le Nouvelliste and the Institute for Research and Promotion of Haitian Craftsmanship (IRPAH). Nearly 200 artisans from across Haïti took part, presenting handmade works ranging from cut-iron and wood carvings to traditional clothing, paintings, jewelry, sandals and leather goods.

Visitors of all ages moved through the exhibition space, stopping to look closely at the pieces, talking with artisans and making purchases. For many vendors, participating meant overcoming challenges tied to insecurity, rising costs, limited access to materials and fewer buyers due to the decline in tourism.

“Personally, it’s a huge excitement for me because this is the first time I’m participating with Ramus, even though the workshop has taken part in the event before,” said Darla Pope, Ramus’s representative at the 19th edition—a workshop that produces sandals, suitcases, handbags, pouches and belts. 

“We barely slept because we were so excited to be here and to present each of our designs, bringing more diversity to the choices available to visitors.”

The event also included a children’s creative space, led by the National Office of Handicrafts (ONART), where young participants explored painting, design and hands-on art activities. 

For two days, Artisanat en Fête offered a space for creation, exchange, and visibility, highlighting the work of Haitian artisans at a time when many continue to struggle to sustain their craft.

Here are some images from the major exhibition festival of the 19th edition of Artisanat en Fête:  

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