Jean-Baptiste Bottex (Haitian, 1918-1979)

Jean-Baptiste Bottex was born in Port-Margot, Haiti, on June 24, 1918, and died in New York on May 28, 1979. The older brother of the well-known painter Seymour Bottex, he became a respected figure in Haitian Naïve art. Jean-Baptiste specialized in biblical subjects and scenes of everyday Haitian life, gaining recognition both locally through exhibitions at the Centre d’Art and internationally. As noted in Peinture Haïtienne by Marie José Nadal and Gérald Bloncourt, he was a “naïve painter specialized in biblical topics and daily scenes from Haitian life.” Early in his career, Bottex worked alongside the renowned Haitian pioneer Philomé Obin. Although Obin’s “Northern School” influence is not strongly evident in his style, the experience helped refine his artistic voice. Jean-Baptiste later established an atelier with his brother S.E. Bottex, where they trained emerging artists and contributed to the growth of Haiti’s modern naïve tradition.Jean-Baptiste Bottex remains a pivotal figure in Haiti’s artistic heritage, celebrated for his evocative storytelling, distinctive naïve style, and dedication to mentoring the next generation of Haitian painters.Scroll down to make your selections!