About the artist
Learn about Reginald Rousseau's journey, artistic style, and the message he hopes to convey through his art.
From Harlem to the World at Large
Reginald Rousseau is a New York–based artist, born in Haiti and raised in Harlem. Trained in Studio Arts and Architectural Design, he develops allegorical portraiture through “Composite Aesthetics”, integrating Haitian Naïve Art, African Art, Art Nouveau, Gothic stained-glass traditions, and Urban Art. His practice includes drawing, painting, digital illustration, and mixed-media assemblage.
Artist-led initiatives
Reginald is the founder of two artist-led initiatives: Reginald Rousseau: Harlem Art Projects (2015–2018), producing pop-up exhibitions, and The Underground Art Gallery + Studio (2018–2023), an independent space dedicated to exhibitions, open studios, and community-centered programming. He has exhibited at the Jamaica Center for Art and Learning; El Barrio Artspace PS109; Bernie Wohl Center; Calabar Gallery; SOPAC’s Herb + Milly Iris Gallery; Paper Mill Playhouse and more.
Public art and accolades
His public art commissions include projects for JFK International Airport, Terminal 4, and the Nassau County Family & Matrimony Court Complex and other private projects. Accolades include: Nominee, for the 2025 Creative Climate Award, by Human Impact Institute and Semi-Finalist, 2023 Painted in New York juried competition by Park West Gallery, Soho. Artist residencies and fellowships include: Artist in Residence, Goddard Riverside’s Bernie Wohl Center (Fall 2024–Winter 2025); ARTWorks Resident Fellow, Jamaica Center for Art and Learning (2022–2023).
"My practice is a search for unity within complexity. By weaving diverse aesthetic influences into layered portraiture, I aim to reveal the interconnectedness of our identities and affirm the value of representation in contemporary culture. My hope is that my works invites viewers to see themselves—and each other—with greater depth, curiosity, and openness."
Reginald Rousseau