
Yves Michaud
Artist’s Statement
Yves Michaud was a rare artist who mastered two distinct styles—each rich in narrative, detail, and cultural
pride. One of his styles was bold and expressive, filled with vibrant colors and dynamic scenes that celebrated
everyday life and the rhythms of Haitian culture. The other, more delicate and refined, revealed a philosophical
side—thoughtful compositions infused with symbolism and spiritual depth.
Born in Port-au-Prince, Michaud’s passion for art emerged at a young age. He was influenced by both
traditional Haitian aesthetics and global movements, allowing him to forge a path that was both rooted in
heritage and uniquely his own. His work has been exhibited in galleries across the world, and his paintings hang
in the homes of collectors who appreciate his ability to capture the soul of Haiti on canvas. Expressions Galerie
d’Art is proud to have in its permanent collection artworks by Yves Michaud AKA Georges Desarmes.
Beyond his paintings, Michaud was a mentor and advocate for young Haitian artists, encouraging them to
explore their identities and embrace the richness of their culture. He believed in the power of art as a form of
resistance, healing, and celebration.
As we mourn his loss, we also celebrate the legacy he leaves behind. Yves Michaud’s work will continue to
inspire, educate, and move us—reminding us of the beauty, resilience, and complexity of Haitian life.
Biography
Yves Michaud was born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti on January 27, 1950 He passed away on March 29 2025. He began painting in 1969 with Nehemy Jean. In the mid seventies, he became close friends with the great Haitian impressionist, Carlo Jean-Jacques. They painted side by side in the atelier at the Galerie Monnin in Petionville for the last year or so of Carlo's life. Michaud is a living Haitian master who paints intimate portraits of everyday Haitian life in a most remarkable fashion; he uses body attitude and facial expression to elevate his subjects into an ethereal zone and then brings them to life with his impeccable technique.
Around the year 2000, Michaud felt the need to refresh himself and began painting in a completely different style and even assumed a new name, Georges Desarmes. As a result, paintings by Yves Michaud are becoming quite scarce.
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