Evelyn Liautaud: Yes, this artwork is named “Tako Papaya.” The name is a blend of elements—“Tako” for the design and “Papaya” for the orange-fuchsia color story. The artwork represents a bird that used to visit my garden every morning in Port-au-Prince. This bird, the Hispaniolan cuckoo, or “Tako” in Creole, became a part of my daily life and inspired the central motif of this piece. It symbolizes more than just a bird; it’s a reminder of the simple yet profound connections we can have with the nature around us, especially in places as vibrant and rich in life as Haiti.

Q: Your work has such a distinctive visual language—how do you find your voice within the vast spectrum of your art pieces?

– My recent work is deeply inspired by the natural environment that surrounded me during my childhood in Haiti. Growing up in a tropical climate, we spent much of our lives outdoors, immersed in the luxuriant vegetation and wildlife. Birds, in particular, have always fascinated me. They symbolize the uplift of the spirit, the freedom and grace that I aim to capture in my work. In “Tako Papaya,” the bird is not just a visual element but the thread that ties the entire piece together, representing both the beauty of the natural world and the deeper spiritual connections we share with it.

Q: When you approach a blank canvas, what emotions or thoughts guide your first strokes? Is there a ritual or routine that begins your creative process?

– My creative process is rooted in meditation, a discipline I’ve nurtured for over 40 years. Before I even touch the canvas, I cultivate a quiet inner space. This space is where I find my inspiration and my voice, free from external noise. Whether I’m expressing myself verbally, visually, or kinesthetically, this calm, centered state is where the true essence of my work emerges. It’s a deeply personal ritual that connects me to the inner peace I seek to reflect in my art.

Q: The colors in your work are incredibly evocative. How do you choose your palette, and what role do these elements play in conveying the deeper meaning of your pieces?

– Color is at the heart of my work, and my palette is directly influenced by my upbringing on the tropical island of Ayiti, known to the world as Haiti. I was surrounded by an exuberant display of color—from the flamboyant hues of Caribbean sunsets to the exotic flowers and fruits, brightly painted houses, dazzling carnival costumes, and the vibrant artistic culture that permeated my life. These bold, vivid colors are imprinted deeply in my mind, and I draw from them freely. In “Tako Papaya,” the orange-fuchsia color story is not just visually striking but also symbolic of the warmth and vibrancy that characterize both my homeland and my work.

– My art is deeply intertwined with my personal experiences and memories, particularly those from my time in Ayiti. At this stage in my life, I am committed to expressing beauty, gratitude, and joy—qualities that reflect my dedication to my well-being and that of those around me. My work also serves as a personal contribution to reshaping the narrative about Ayiti, a country often misunderstood. Through my art, I share my unique aesthetic sensibility, which has been shaped by the rich cultural heritage of my homeland. “Tako Papaya” is a piece that merges the past and present, celebrating the beauty of Ayiti while also embracing modern design elements.

Q: In the creative journey, moments of doubt and uncertainty are inevitable. How do you navigate these challenges and maintain your artistic integrity?

– Doubt and uncertainty are indeed part of the creative process. My experience has taught me that these challenges can be navigated by anchoring oneself in consistent inner practice. For me, this means maintaining a disciplined approach to meditation and inner peace. It’s this practice that reinforces and deepens my sense of balance, allowing me to remain true to my artistic vision, even when faced with difficulties. In those moments, I remind myself of the importance of inner calm and the strength that comes from a heart grounded in peace.

Q: Is there a meaning behind the mangrove cuckoo (the bird) and hibiscus on the artwork?

– Yes, there is a deep meaning behind each element. The Hispaniolan cuckoo bird, or “Tako” as it’s known in Ayiti, holds a special place in my heart. Its quirky rattle-like song was a constant companion in my garden in Port-au-Prince, greeting me each morning as it hopped from branch to branch. In “Tako Papaya,” I’ve stylized this bird to create a sleek, modern look—elongating its beak and streamlining the details of its plumage. The foliage and flower in the design, while not exactly a hibiscus, are inspired by the lush, fern-like plants and bromeliads of the tropical forests. This composition celebrates the rich biodiversity of Ayiti’s endangered rainforests, aiming to raise awareness and appreciation for the natural beauty that is so integral to the island’s spirit.

Q: Your artwork has traveled to another continent, to a country where hot summers are considered a luxury. Are you excited about that? How do you think the inhabitants of cold Scandinavia will react to a tropical and sun-filled artwork?

– I am deeply honored that my art has found a home in Norway, through the collaboration with the Summershot team. It brings me immense joy to know that the vibrant and tropical “Tako Papaya” design has made its way to Scandinavia. I cherish these unexpected and contrasting ventures—where the warmth and color of the tropics can bring a touch of sunshine to places that experience the cooler side of the world. My hope is that this piece is already brightening your summer, bringing a sense of tropical warmth and joy to the beautiful, albeit colder, landscapes of Scandinavia.

Q: Final thoughts—what do you hope people take away from your collaboration with Summershot?

– My hope is that people will feel the joy, warmth, and vibrancy that “Tako Papaya” embodies. This collaboration with Summershot is more than just about aesthetics; it’s about bringing a piece of my world, my heritage, and my love for nature to others. I want people to be inspired by the beauty of the tropics, to feel connected to the vitality that Summershot represents, and to carry a piece of that energy with them throughout their day. If this artwork brings even a moment of joy or a touch of warmth to someone’s life, then I consider it a success.