Mosobwa Haiti: Joanes Shines at the Artisan Fair

​On May 1st, Jacmel held its annual Artisan Fair at the city hall downtown. Vendors from all over the greater Jacmel region sold handmade clothing, beauty products, and crafts. Among them was Mosobwa, the company headed by our very own Joanes, who unveiled some new and unique woodwork for the first time.​

Preparation for the fair was quite taxing for Joanes. He had to travel to Port au Prince to purchase the pallette wood that serves as the base material for his new line of products. Getting them transported to Jacmel was not easy, and required much strategic planning. However, overcoming this struggle was the beginning of an exciting journey.

“What was most encouraging was really being able to start the project and start doing something new,” said Joanes. “It felt great to begin.”

The exposition was two days long and gathered both vendors and customers from many different regions of the country.

“I was excited for people to see something different, and to see what can be done with this ordinary wood,” Joa said proudly. “I didn’t participate in the fair just to make sales, but more so to expand the Mosobwa brand and show what I can do.”

The fair was an encouraging experience for Joanes that allowed him to network and also get a feel for what people are interested in.

“People were really into the clocks,” he said with a smile.

 Mosobwa’s clocks are quite unique statement pieces. They are all handmade, and their designs can be customized as well.

Though currently he is working on some commissioned items and preparing to start a more traditional line of furniture, orders are always welcome in Joanes’ workshop.

You can follow Joanes and his work on Instagram and Facebook at @mosobwahaiti @joa_orelien.