View through one of the holes at Le Perroquet
My finally morning at Le Perroquet, I spent taking photos through several holes in the wall and contemplated a future ‘eye spy’ installation. A few last photos of vendors setting up for the day’s business, sneaked around the edge of slab of green metal that was the front door, and my ride was outside to take me to Ibo Lele.
Andrea and I arrived at citadelle Ibo Lele, checked into our room and went in search of the pool. Been dreaming of this pool for months, and the water was as bracing as I remembered. I had an unparalleled view of Port au Prince with a backdrop of grey-green mountains, my version of a horizon pool. I was happy to see the staff of Ibo Lele remembered me, and were as happy to see me, as I was to see them. They really do take good care of us here.
Andrea, Prensnelo and me at Ibo Lele
But business before pleasure: artist Prensnelo arranged for Le Nouvelliste journalist Lord Edwin Byron to interview us about our trip here, and our expectations. Then it was hugs and kisses and much joyous noise, as I reacquainted with several artists from last year’s art camp, and introduced Andrea to the gang. Our first supper was a moderately quiet affair, as the bulk of the artists—there should be 22 of us coming into Haiti—was still not here. Even though we had a lot to catch up on, the jetlag, and general fatigue meant an early night for us all.
After breakfast, we were all bright eyed, and ready to paint, and we each got our first canvas, but I am not in a hurry. I’m debating what to create, as I am still digesting the four days in Petion Ville. Andrea joined a group of artists who went down Montagne Noir on foot to Petion Ville, to experience first hand the sight and smells of the town. She told me she bought plantain chips for all, and shared her experience of being in that space with the first timers. She is an old hand now, and is quite pleased with herself. Wonderful!
This evening, with the exception of 3, we should all be present for the official opening, and formal introduction of visiting and Haitian participants. We expect the mayor, camp sponsors and art collectors to attend. And so it begins.
Vendors setting up for the day’s sales in Petion Ville