He began painting in 1973 and, despite having studied with the Haitian master Antoine Obin, he soon left the school in Cap-Haitien. His paintings are characterized by bright colours, intricate patterns, and compact compositions. His human figures are often depicted with animal heads, symbolising his disenchanted and cynical gaze at the ruling class. Zéphirin’s highly creative works are inspired by Haiti’s history, politics, the Bible and vudù rites. He describes himself as a “historical animalist” and unlike many Haitian painters, he usually titles his paintings. He was influenced also by Leonardo da Vinci, James Darwin and the lost continent of Atlantis.
