Kilti: Revisited Showcases the Richness of Haitian Art
The latest exhibition at Arts Warehouse, Kilti: Revisited, brings together powerful visuals, rich history, and a celebration of Haitian culture—just in time for Haitian Heritage Month. Running through June 28th, the show builds on the success of the original Kilti exhibit held in 2023, with an expanded collection and deeper cultural connections.
“The second iteration of Kilti came together through a dual collaborative effort between Daphney Antoine of Sister Cities Delray Beach, and Arts Warehouse,” said Grace Gdaniec, Program Director at the CRA. “The first exhibition in 2023 was so well received. It was educational, celebratory, and truly showcased a culture that is so prominent here in Delray Beach.”
What sets Kilti: Revisited apart is its expanded lineup of artwork and contributors. In 2023, the exhibition featured selections solely from the collection of Dr. Jacques Bartoli. This time around, the exhibit includes additional pieces from the Atizana Inspired Collection and Kapha Gallery, both based in South Florida. Each collection brings unique perspectives and media—highlighting the breadth of Haitian artistry.
Among the standout pieces are wall sculptures made from recycled steel oil drums. “Artists take oil drums and use the metal to carve, hammer, shape, and paint different motifs that hang on the wall,” Grace explained. “They’ve been really popular—and a few have already sold.”
The exhibition features a mix of older, historical pieces and works by contemporary artists, creating what Grace describes as “a historical exploration of Haitian Art.” The vibrant paintings, beaded and sequined voudou flags, and metal wall sculptures offer visitors an intimate glimpse into the celebrations, daily life, spirituality, and natural beauty of Haiti.
Dr. Bartoli’s contribution remains a cornerstone of the exhibit. “We have 22 hand-beaded voudou flags from his collection on loan right now,” said Grace. “And that’s only a small percentage of I believe he has in storage.”
A key partner in bringing Kilti: Revisited to life was the Delray Beach Sister Cities Program. Their relationship with Aquin, Haiti, and the efforts of Daphney Antoine were essential in organizing both Kilti exhibitions. Their work ensures Haitian art and culture continue to be honored and shared in Delray Beach.
At its core, this exhibit aligns with Arts Warehouse’s mission to celebrate multicultural voices and create accessible spaces for the community to experience new and thought-provoking art.
“People are floored to view the beaded flags and the metal works—these aren’t artistic pieces you encounter very often,” Grace shared. “We hope the fine artistry and craftsmanship continues to be admired and celebrated well beyond the exhibit.”
Don’t miss your chance to explore Kilti: Revisited—on view at the Arts Warehouse through June 28th.
