A Journey through Haitian Art and Culture

Saragine Marie Georges Valris is an emerging star in Haitian vodou (sometimes spelled voodoo) flag art, also known as drapo vodou, bringing a unique and sacred tradition from Haiti to the global stage. Vodou flags are integral to the living Haitian culture, historically created to honor the lwa (spirits) and connect the physical and spiritual worlds. 

Raised in Port-au-Prince, Saragine grew up in a home filled with creativity, thanks to her parents, Georges Valris and Andrémise Brianvil, both esteemed artists celebrated for their contributions to vodou flag art. For Saragine, her childhood environment became a haven where beads, sequins, and colorful fabrics were transformed into tools for storytelling. At only 10 years old, she crafted her first flag, a breathtaking vèvè of Damballah illustrating two entwined snakes forming a heart. Her art carries profound meaning—it tells stories, communicates messages, and preserves the spiritual heritage of Haitian culture. 

Each creation contains a hidden story, inviting admirers of Haitian vodou to interpret its deeper meanings. Her work honors her ancestors while also innovating on the traditional styles of her family. One of her notable pieces is the “Asòtò: Manman Tanbou,” a lively necklace symbolizing one of the most important drums in Haitian vodou. These intricate details reflect the craftsmanship in her work, which requires intense focus and a strong connection to her ancestors. With each stitch, bead, and sequin, Saragine Marie Georges Valris creates art which captures the essence of Haiti and the island’s soul.