Fritz Racine began his art endeavors as a Haitian art collector when the Art Center in Haiti opened in the 1950s, but more officially when he obtained a B.S. in Ceramics Engineering from Alfred University in New York in 1952.
After returning to Haiti to aid and manage humanitarian efforts in response to Hurricane Hazel, Racine taught ceramics to young people, and spouses of diplomats serving in Haiti.
Life Journey Gallery
One of his many students became acclaimed artists, including artist Jean-Claude “Tiga” Garoute.
Racine shifted to many different employments following art instruction, and served a 34-year career with the U.S. Information Agency before retiring in 1991 as the Chief of the French language section of the Africa branch.
Alongside his professional life, Racine is credited with increasing the popularity of Haitian art in the U.S., Haiti, and abroad. He and his wife, Gladys Coby Racine owned a Haitian Art Gallery in Adams Morgan between 1970-1998 where they showcased the works of various art schools from Haiti.
In 2001, Racine was appointed president of the Washington Metropolitan Chapter of the Haitian Art Society, a national organization of collectors, researchers, and dealers dedicated to raising awareness and appreciation of Haitian art. In addition, numerous celebrations across the U.S. of Haitian art, history, craft and culture would not have been possible without the work of Fritz and his wife.
Fritz Racine’s legacy continues on today in The Racine Collection, a platform that showcases his research and contribution to documenting Haitian art and history, and serves as an extension of his private art collection with rare occasions of pieces for sale.