By Elizabeth Hazard
Haitian culture is alive and well in Miami. If you’re looking to take in some art, embrace the culture or simply educate yourself on the culture of Haiti, here are a few destinations you don’t want to miss in Miami.
The Haitian Cultural Arts Alliance offers information, education and artwork exhibits. Founded in 1994, the non-profit organization strives to preserve and promote the rich Afro-Caribbean culture while bolstering a sense of community. The institution offers ongoing art exhibitions, language arts programs and other cultural events. Most recently on view there is the exhibition Emmanuel Merisier, From Haiti to Beyond. The Haitian painter introduces 28 of his paintings melding traditional with modern.
Little Haiti Cultural Complex is an all-around mecca of Haitian culture. The enormous complex is home to various venues, including an art gallery, Caribbean Marketplace, dance studios, a theater and community rooms for miscellaneous events. They offer everything from Artists in Residence positions, small business training, dance classes, summer camp, classes and beyond. The complex even hosts bus tours of Little Haiti.
The Haitian Heritage Museum was founded to commemorate Haiti’s Bicentennial, which was in 2004. The museum has at its aim a desire to bring Haitians together and bolster economic growth through artwork, music, historic elements, film and music. Countless exhibits, cultural and educational programs have been fostered and created through the museum. Currently on view now until April 5 is the solo exhibition by renowned photographer Marc Baptiste entitled Haiti a la Mode.