Meeting with artist Raphaël Barontini: 'France has a real misunderstanding of its relationship with Haiti
In her Vogue article, Lolita Mang reviews Raphaël Barontini’s exhibition Quelque part dans la nuit, le peuple danse at the Palais de Tokyo, where the artist explores the colonial history between France and Haiti. Inspired by Aimé Césaire’s La tragédie du roi Christophe, Barontini uses the Palais Sans Souci as a central symbol, representing the tension between French colonialism and Haitian independence. The artist challenges historical narratives, particularly through his depictions of figures like Henri Christophe and Cécile Fatiman, blending mediums like embroidery and painting to critique the lingering effects of colonialism.
Barontini, who has long addressed colonial themes, reflects on France’s role in Haiti’s struggles, referencing a 2022 New York Times investigation that revealed the enormous financial toll Haiti endured due to French “reparations.” As Barontini states, “In France, we have a real misunderstanding of our relationship with Haiti.” His exhibition not only highlights the historical connections between the two nations but also serves as a poignant critique of France’s ongoing neglect of its colonial legacy.
