Since the 1960s, these men and women helped shape the country’s intellectual, artistic, and educational landscape through their works, their pedagogical commitment, and their active role in the transmission of knowledge. Among them were the poet Anthony Phelps; the writer, playwright, and painter Frankétienne; the art historian Michel-Philippe Lerebours; the linguist Lyonel Sanon; and the sociologist and activist Didier Dominique. Also included are the spoken-word artist Pierre J. Brisson, the illustrator Chris Marvens, the sculptor Jean Salomon Horace (Ti Pèlen), the educator Serge Larose, and the emeritus bishop Willy Romélus.

Pierre J. Brisson (1947–2025)

Born on January 3, 1947, Pierre J. Brisson established himself as an emblematic figure of spoken-word poetry in Haiti. His deeply resonant voice transformed words into lasting, tangible emotions. Through his albums À Voix Basse 1 and À Voix Basse 2, released in 2004 and 2006 respectively, he popularized many Haitian poems, giving living presence to texts by authors from different eras. An actor, he collaborated with Syto Cavé in several theatrical productions. Beyond his two albums, he lent his voice to several Haitian documentary films, strengthening his role as a bridge between the written word and oral performance. In recent years, weakened by illness, he gradually withdrew from the cultural scene and from all activities related to oratory art. Pierre J. Brisson passed away on January 6, 2025, just days after celebrating his 78th birthday.