Julio Desmont is a Haitian-born visual artist based in Burlington, Vermont,  whose vibrant and emotionally resonant works draw from a rich tapestry of cultural, historical, and personal influences. Desmont’s early artistic inspirations came from the vivid imagery of the natural world—particularly the colorful trogon birds—and the dynamic aesthetics of “Taptaps,” Haiti’s iconic, ornately decorated public transport vehicles.  

Deeply influenced by the works of Jean-Michel Basquiat, Wassily Kandinsky, Paul Klee, Pablo Picasso, and Georgia O’Keeffe, Desmont’s style reflects a unique modernist approach that is rooted in both African totemic art and contemporary Western art traditions. His earliest creative sparks were also ignited by the animated characters of Walt Disney and the expressive forms of Haitian folklore and street life. Central to his artistic philosophy is the idea of creating harmony out of chaos—“diving into the womb of disorder and pulling out structure and order.” His paintings aim to provoke emotional responses and joy, offering viewers a glimpse into the playful, spiritual, and cosmic nature of creation.

In 2003, Desmont enrolled at the École Nationale des Beaux-Arts (ENARTS) in Port-au-Prince, where he formally studied fine arts. During his time at ENARTS, he began to envision a more inclusive future for art education—one where creativity would be central to the development of young minds. Motivated by this vision, he began voluntarily teaching children foreign languages, including English, through drawing and artistic expression.

Desmont honed his skills under the guidance of prominent Haitian masters such as Valcin II, Dieudonné Cédor, Ludovic Booz, Jean-Claude Garoute (Ti Ga), and Harold Alfonse, and was mentored by Dr. Michel Philippe Lherébours, then director of the Musée d'Art Haïtien du Collège Saint-Pierre.

In addition to his studio work, Desmont has long used art as a tool for education and healing. Following the 2010 earthquake in Haiti, he worked with displaced children in the Dominican Republic, using art to support cultural adaptation and emotional well-being

Desmont remains deeply committed to fostering community through art. He is an active member of the Vermont African American/African Diaspora Artists Network (VAAADAN) and collaborates regularly with local organizations, including schools and the Clemmons Family Farm. His creative outreach includes community murals, intergenerational workshops, and programs such as “Painting from Your Window with Spoken Word” and abstract card-making with elders—all of which embody his belief in art as a powerful, inclusive force for connection and healing.

Julio Desmont's life and work are a testament to the role artists can play as cultural bridges. Through education, outreach, and creative expression, he continues to inspire and uplift communities, underscoring his core belief: art is a universal language that unites and empowers people across generations and backgrounds.