The Expulsion from the Garden

André Normil is best known for his detailed and vividly colored panoramic scenes of paradise, Noah's ark, carnival and everyday Haitian life. Normil is ambiguous about his relationship with Voodoo, the African-based religion of Haiti. He says he "still believes in it a little." In fact, Voodoo, is a way of life in Haiti. Its deep regard for the spiritual vitality of nature and events can be felt in the work of many Haitian artists, Normil included.

The Expulsion from the Garden depicts a story of faithlessness punished from the book of Genesis in the Bible. In this painting, nature bears sentient witness to the frailties and strengths of human character. A dog, traditionally "man's best friend," chastises Adam and Eve's infidelity by barking and nipping at their heels as they leave paradise. The grapevine entwining a tree at the right promises salvation through the Eucharist.