Crescent City Conjure Lecture Series: Class Four.

"Mystic Visions: Lwa Iconography in Haitian Vodou"

Presenter: Hougan Alain of Sosyete Nap Rive (Tomazo, Haiti)

“Mystic Visions” will analyze the relationships between the “lwa” (principle spiritual entities/intermediaries in Haitian Vodou) and their graphic (often, Catholic) representations in order to gain insight regarding their (the Spirits’) attributes and deeper, esoteric mysteries. The class will approach this objective using three pillars of Haitian practice, Erzulie Dantor as represented by the Black Madonna, Kouzen Zaka as represented by St. Isidore, and Ogou as represented by St. Jacques. Ogou. Finally, attendees will learn how to “charge” one such graphic depiction to create an active altar/talisman to bring forth success within the family, business, or protection. 

Alain Pierre-Louis, a Boston native, moved to Miami, Florida as an early teenager where he connected more intimately to his Haitian culture and ultimately, traditional religion. He initiated into Vodou in Haiti with Sosyete Nap Rive as a Hougan Sou Pwen, and now specializes in baths, divination and ritual. Outside of his practice, Alain has a Masters degree in Marine Biology and works as a scientist and environmental educator in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.