Black Maiden: In Veil of Sapphire

Medium: Porcelain Ceramics
Dimensions: 13.5” x 9” x 15.5”
Year: 2024

In “Black Maiden: In Veil of Sapphire,” Doucet delves into the profound spiritual significance of the color blue, drawing inspiration not only from Gullah Geechee culture but also from the ancient traditions of the San People of Africa. Influenced by his ancestral connections to Haiti, the pioneering Black Republic, Doucet’s ceramic sculpture is immersed in a spectrum of blue hues, each shade carefully chosen to resonate with the landscapes of both the Caribbean and the African continent.

As Doucet melds elements of magical realism with trompe-l’œil techniques, he invites viewers to traverse realms of enchantment and fluidity, evoking parallels to the opulent aesthetics of French Rococo architecture. Yet, beneath the surface allure lies a profound symbolism: the blue tones act as a conduit for spiritual metamorphosis and empowerment, echoing the cultural richness not only of the Gullah Geechee community but also of the San People, known for their deep spiritual connections to nature and the cosmos.

Within the intricate details of the sculpture, one finds echoes of resilience and grace, mirroring the enduring qualities embodied by Haitian women. The figurative bust, adorned in typical flora, symbolizes a journey of spiritual ascension, transcending cultural boundaries and embracing universal themes of humility and strength.

Photography by Pedrowazzan and retouching by David Gary Lloyd