Inspired by her Haitian roots, Chantal Gesse creates immersive works of art from her Harlem enclave

Oil and acrylic painter Chantal Gesse knew from a very young age, while growing up in her Haiti homeland, that she would one day become renowned for her creativity. She was mesmerized by the beautiful tropical surroundings where she found inspiration to bring colorful images to life.

By age 11, the phenom’s artistic work became the center of her life after moving with her parents to the historic and culturally vibrant enclave of Harlem, where the power of her inventiveness grew, and her creative juices flowed. She went on to exhibit her work in artistic spaces, including the Harlem Fine Art Show, Art Expo, and Fashion Week Brooklyn, a borough-wide showcasing the diversity of talent, art, and fashion.

Her one-of-a-kind artworks were featured in copious top films by Paramount Pictures, including “Boomerang” and “A Bronx Tale.” Many of her pieces can also be seen in various restaurants throughout NYC, and was featured at Resorts World NYC, Women’s Heritage Month exhibition.

Gesse told Caribbean Life at a recent heritage exhibition at Queens Museum that she brings the vibrancy of the Caribbean, a place that, to this day, inspires her work.

Her Haitian roots deeply influences her colorful childhood and profound traveling experiences. From New York, to Europe, Iceland, and Africa, her impressionistic works evoke a wide range of emotions, inviting viewers to explore intimate reflections and bold inquiries, she said. 

From Gessse’ intricate tree landscapes to her majestic human figures, art is a celebration of life, she said.

She sees painting as a form of meditation. “It keeps me fulfilled somehow. I go into the fourth dimension of creativity, and my mind helps me to feel free,” she explained. 

Gesse, whose works of art are also displayed at the African American museum, describes her creative inspiration as a connection to color that fuels her artistic process. She considers her painting an addictive, life-affirming endeavor, according to her website.

She said her goal is to draw viewers beyond the surface of her art, “inviting them to explore their associations and emotions.” 

Her hair-braiding series is a fitting example of the urban life that surrounds and inspires her work. 

“Whenever I get my hair braided at an African salon in Harlem, I observe the hard work the woman does, and I just thought I would portray that in honor of what they do every day,” she said.

The accomplished artist, who continues to shine after creating for more than 10 years across art spaces, credits her talent and creative outlet to her upbringing.