Handmade Haitian Decor, Voodoo Roosters in Tango, Fair Trade Folk Art 10x34in

Artist Profile- Tunis Dixon

First we met Eugene, then Eddy and now Tunis Dixon, the youngest brother in a very talented family of artists. Tunis is coming into his own with an innovative style that is clearly influenced, though not overtaken by his older siblings. Voodoo looms large in his imagery, with androgenous saxophone-playing fish people, rooster women, and moon-faced couples spearheading his repertoire and veves puncuating each piece. His detailed execution and wildly imaginative use of cultural symbolism make him an artist to watch. His star is on the rise!

Just as roosters protect their flock, in Vodou, they are often seen as protectors against negative energies or spirits. A rooster might be kept in a household or sacred space to act as a guardian against malevolent forces. Given its role in procreation, the rooster is also a symbol of fertility in Haitian Vodou. Rituals invoking blessings for fertility, both in terms of human offspring and agricultural bounty, might involve the use of roosters.
Animals play a crucial role in Vodou rituals, with the rooster being one of the most commonly used creatures for sacrifices. The act of sacrifice is a means to appease the spirits, known as "lwa" or "loa," and to seek their blessings or guidance. The blood of the rooster is particularly potent and is believed to hold life force and energy that the spirits can consume. Some lwa are closely associated with roosters. For instance, Ogoun, the warrior spirit and the spirit of metalwork, is often offered roosters in rituals. The red color of the rooster is linked with Ogoun's fiery and passionate nature.