André Eugène is a Haitian artist, born in 1959 in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. He is a prominent figure in the contemporary Haitian art scene and is best known for his work in the realm of sculpture. Eugène's work is deeply informed by the complex socio-political and economic circumstances of his country, and he often utilizes found materials and recycled objects to construct his pieces, which can be categorized under the movement of 'Arte Povera' or 'poor art'.
Eugène co-founded the artist collective Atis Rezistans, also known as the Sculptors of Grand Rue, along with other Haitian artists. This collective is known for its community-based approach to art and for utilizing the debris and materials found in their impoverished neighborhood to create compelling works of art that speak to the resilience and creativity of the Haitian people. The Grand Rue community, where Eugène's workshop is located, is in the heart of Port-au-Prince and has become a focal point for an innovative artistic movement that combines traditional Haitian Vodou culture with a stark, post-apocalyptic visual aesthetic.
His work has been exhibited internationally, including shows in Europe and the United States, and is recognized for its powerful commentary on global consumerism, spirituality, and the human condition. Eugène's sculptures often feature skeletal figures and religious iconography, which reflect the Vodou belief system and the everyday struggles faced by the people of Haiti.
Despite the international acclaim, André Eugène remains deeply connected to his roots in Haiti, where he continues to create art and mentor young artists through Atis Rezistans. His commitment to using art as a tool for social change is evident in his involvement in community education and his efforts to transform the perception of disadvantaged areas through creative expression.
To this day, André Eugène is alive and continues to contribute to the world of contemporary art, both as an individual artist and as a member of the vibrant community he helped to build in Port-au-Prince.