River – Frito Bastien – Original Oil on Canvas – 16x24 in
 
About the Artwork: "River" is a vibrant and harmonious portrayal of the Haitian countryside. In this piece, Frito Bastien captures the vital interdependence between a community and its environment. Against a backdrop of winding mountain ranges and lush tropical greens—including a detailed pineapple patch—the river serves as the central life force. A woman bathes in the foreground while children play nearby, illustrating the river's role in providing sustenance for crops, homes, and well-being. This landscape is a warm, intimate invitation to appreciate the quiet dignity and rhythm of rural island life.
 
About the Artist Frito Bastien (b. 1954) is a master of the Haitian Naïve tradition. 1 Originally from Jacmel, Bastien’s artistic journey began under the mentorship of Célestin Faustin. 2 His work is characterized by its emotional depth and "coded" symbolism, often reflecting on his transition from Haiti to Philadelphia. 3 A recipient of a Pew Fellowship in the Arts, Bastien is celebrated as a cultural steward whose paintings are included in major collections across the Mid-Atlantic.