MAKERS | THE AMERICAS | HAITI | TEXTILES

 

Mireille Delismé | Drapo Vodou Maker

 

 

Inspired by a dream in which she was visited by the Vodou Iwa (deity) Erzulie, Mireille Delismé found her voice manifested in the form of Drapo Vodou. These bead and sequin embroidered flags reflect their African, Indigenous and Catholic heritage. Her father, an oungan (Vodou priest), interpreted the message to be from the spirit of love. Represented in the Vodou tradition by a heart, Delismé used the symbol in her first hand-beaded drapo. These historic tapestries convey the iconography of evolving Haitian Vodou religious practices and are understood today as contemporary masterworks of Folk Art.

How did you begin?

“My name is Mireille Delismé; I also work under the artist name of Mireille Delice. I’ve been creating flags and other beaded accessories for over 30 years. This work is my true passion. I love working with beads and sequins to craft unique pieces that resonate with my audience. While most artists use a lot of sequins in their flags, I prefer to work primarily with beads. Representing my culture through my art fills me with pride, and it brings me great joy to see it appreciated worldwide. I hope to continue creating until my last days.”

How did you learn?

“When I got laid off from a wedding dress factory, I trained under a cousin - the artist Myrlande Constant - who was making flags. I learned the techniques and added my own flair to the designs, focusing mostly on creating large flags. Then I continued to learn on my own before teaching others, and I established my atelier in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. I eventually built a team of twelve, and together we began creating collections that garnered a lot of attention.”

How do you plan, prepare and create your works? 

“I start each piece with a clear vision inspired by Haiti’s rich traditions and spiritual heritage. Planning begins by selecting designs that reflect the veves and spirits central to Vodou, ensuring each creation tells a meaningful story with my own creative touch. I source materials like sequins and beads, either locally or from abroad, and prepare my fabric base.”

Mireille Delismé, Black Madonna by Pawel A. Sokalski

 

“In the atelier, I focus all my energy on the work, using the Luneville embroidery technique to bring intricate designs to life. This is also known as tambour embroidery, a specialized needlework method where a small, crochet-like hook is used to create intricate chain stitches on stretched fabric. This technique allows me to craft detailed and expressive designs, transforming the fabric into vibrant works of art that embody the flag's symbolism and cultural heritage. Whether I’m crafting Voodoo flags or functional items like clutches and pillow covers, every stitch is made with care and intention to honor my culture and create something beautiful and enduring.”

Who or what most influences your work?

“My work is deeply inspired by Haiti—its culture, traditions, and people. I'm also influenced by my clients' feedback and by the world around us.”

“Voodoo flags are unique to Haitian culture, reflecting traditions deeply rooted in our African heritage. Originally, these flags were created exclusively for  lwa ceremonies to honor and celebrate the spirits. Today, they have expanded beyond ceremonial use, becoming decorative pieces displayed in homes and businesses. With the introduction of various sizes, more people can now afford to own and appreciate these symbolic creations. Most of our designs feature veves—sacred symbols tied to specific deities in Vodou. Each veve holds spiritual significance, connecting the flag to the divine and preserving the profound meaning behind this treasured Haitian tradition.”

What does a typical day look like? 

“When I’m working, I usually start my day very early, often beginning by 6 a.m. I spend the entire day in the atelier, either working alone or alongside my team. I take short breaks to eat and stretch a few times, but my workday typically lasts until 5 or 6 in the evening. When I’m creating, my focus is entirely on the art. All my energy goes into crafting a piece that not only impresses my clients but also brings me a deep sense of personal fulfillment.”

Delismé Angels by Pawel A. Sokalski

 

Words by Peter Speliopoulos,
based on an interview with Mireille Delismé, translated by Nathalie Tancrede

Images from Pawel A. Sokalski, Pierre Minn and Jacob Mahfoud

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