Haiti Cultural Exchange

VIZYON ATISTIK: Haiti Louisiana: Tides of Freedom
2024-06-09 - 2024-06-30 | FiveMyles Gallery, 558 St. John’s Place, Brooklyn, New York, 11213
See the Vizyon Atistik exhibition entitled Haiti-Louisiana: Tides of Freedom throughout the month of June.
The exhibition “Haiti – Louisiana: Tides of Freedom,” presented in French and English, embarks on a captivating journey through history, bringing to the forefront the intertwined narratives of Haiti and Louisiana. It serves as a significant commemoration of Haiti’s 220th anniversary of independence (January 1804 – January 2024), marking its debut in New Orleans, Louisiana, in partnership with the Nous Foundation and the Historic BK House & Gardens. This groundbreaking exhibition delves deep into the shared historical heritage of these regions, with a particular focus on their relentless struggles for freedom and human rights. Through a diverse array of artworks, it seeks to honor the legacy of Haiti’s independence and illuminate its profound influence, notably through the 1811 slave revolt in Louisiana. By weaving together themes of freedom, resilience, and identity, “Haiti – Louisiana: Tides of Freedom” encourages visitors to partake in a broader discourse on the intertwined legacies of resistance and the ongoing battle for equality and justice. This exhibition is curated by Max Jean-Louis and features Harry Abilhomme, Patritia Brintle, Alyn Defay, Peter Nakhid, and Nick-Edward Woolley.

Gallery Hours
Thursday – Sunday: 1 – 6pm

Haitian Flag Day Selebrasyon! with BélO
2024-05-15 17:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Prospect Park Boat House, 101 East Dr., Brooklyn, New York, 11225
Join Haiti Cultural Exchange in partnership with the Prospect Park Alliance on Wednesday, May 15, 2024 for a Haitian Flag Selebrasyon! Featuring live music by the renowned singer-songwriter, BélO, artisanal vendors and more!

5 – 8 pm (performance at 6:30 pm)
Prospect Park Boathouse & Audubon Center
101 East Dr, Brooklyn, NY 11225
About BélO
BélO has been hailed as Haiti’s musical ambassador to the world. A socially conscious singer-songwriter with a sophisticated sound and winner of numerous awards, including the prestigious “Prix Radio France International Discoveries of 2006,” BelO’s sound is a sublime mixture of Jazz, Worldbeat, Rock, Reggae and Afro- Haitian traditional rhythms known as “Ragganga”. With six albums already under his belt-“LAKOU TRANKIL” (2005) “REFERENCE” (2008), Haiti Debout (2011), Natif Natal (2014) Dizan (2016) and Motivasyon (2019) -sung in his rich and colorful native language, Haitian Creole, BélO has established himself as a Haitian-International artist signpost. After the January 2010 earthquake in Haiti, BélO ‘s primary focus was to create awareness for his country at various performances around the world. BélO ‘s third album “HAITI DEBOUT,” (Haiti Stand-up -2011) was released under Radio France/France Info and distributed, globally, by Harmonia Mundi. During the ” HAITI DEBOUT ” tour, BélO has performed in Germany, Rome, Romania, France, South Korea, London, Canada and the U.S.
2023 Lakou NOU artist-in-residence Maxine Montilus’ movement project, “L’Espwa Pou Demen” (“Hope for Tomorrow”) came about from her collaboration with youth in the Flanbwayan Haitian Literacy Project, Brooklyn International High School and The Goddess Project. Maxine hosted poetry, movement, and visual arts workshops engaging young people around the questions: “What would Haitian youth like to see for the future of Haiti?” and “What do Haitian youth think Haiti needs to develop as a country?” Maxine has also been working with the Medgar Evers College Multimedia Dance Theater Ensemble to perform choreography inspired by young people’s visions for Haiti. For the Lakou NOU culminating event, Maxine will present a choreographic work that incorporates dance, music, poetry and video that centers embodied practice as cultural preservation, a testament to resilience, and hope for a peaceful future.
Dancers featured in the work are Shania Jones, Alyssa Wheeler, and Dejanae Singleton from Medgar Evers College’s Multimedia Dance Ensemble. Poetry written and spoken by Maxine Montilus and Jessica Michel.
Vendors: TBD
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Prospect Park Alliance is the non-profit organization that sustains, restores and advances Prospect Park, Brooklyn’s Backyard, in partnership with the City of New York. The Alliance provides critical staff and resources that keep the Park green and vibrant for the diverse communities that call Brooklyn home. Learn more at www.prospectpark.org.

Ti Atis Second Saturdays at Brooklyn Children's Museum
2024-05-11 14:00 - 16:00 (America/New_York) | Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Avenue, Brooklyn, New York, 11213
Bring your “little artists” for an afternoon of creativity hosted by HCX at the Brooklyn Children’s Museum.

2-4 pm
Saturday, May 11th

This event’s guest teacher is artist Imamou Lele and More!
Ti Atis (Little Artists) engages youth of Haitian descent and their peers with Haitian history and heritage via the arts, giving young people the tools to build an inclusive and culturally informed future as they learn about diverse art forms from professional Haitian artists.
More details coming soon!
As a gift to our email subscribers, we’re offering you the opportunity to sign up for a free ticket. Sign up Today (link in our footer). Ti Atis is included with the cost of entry to the museum. Get a ticket to the museum here »
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About Ti Atis Second Saturdays
This series of events takes place on the second Saturday or each month from December 2023 thru May 2024. Each Saturday will feature a different instructor and art form from our incredibly talented community.

Mizik Ayiti! with Tiga Jean-Baptiste
2024-05-04 14:30 - 15:15 UTC | Brooklyn Botanic Garden, 990 Washington Avenue, Brookyln, NY, United States
Join Brooklyn Botanic Garden & Haiti Cultural Exchange in celebrating Haitian Heritage Month this May with Mizik Ayiti!

Saturday, May 4
2:30 pm
Brooklyn Botanic Garden
We’ll be in the Osborne Garden. See details here »
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About The Artist
Tiga Jean-Baptiste began drumming at a very young age at various events in Haiti with his father Bonga, master of the Haitian drum. With the help of famed Haitian Jazz saxophonist Thurgot Théodat, he soon began to master a variety of Haitian wind instruments; as well as the Australian didgeridoo and the Mbira from the Shona people of Zimbabwe.
Staying true to his Haitian roots, Tiga has worked with many of Haiti’s most respected artists, including Emeline Michel, Jean-Paul Bourelly and Bonga. He has also successfully ventured outside of tradition, performing with artists from Zimbabwe: Thomas Mapfumo, Stella Chiweshe and Chiwoniso Maraire. He has blessed the stage with Grammy award winning artists John Legend, Grace Jones and Wyclef Jean.
With his band this artist’s versatility radiates. Tchaka, a traditional Haitian dish, is created by mixing various ingredients together. The band is a mix of Haitian as well as Shona music from Zimbabwe, or “Shona Kreyòl.”  The myriad styles Tiga has mastered are blended to create a rich musical landscape, as delicious and satisfying as the dish. Get ready for some Feel Good Music!
Feel Good Music!
Tiga Jean-Baptiste with Sebastian Cruz, Syl DuBenion, Jojo Kuo & Markus Schwartz

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About Haiti Cultural Exchange
Haiti Cultural Exchange is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to develop, present and promote the cultural expressions of the Haitian people. Our programs in the arts, education and public affairs raise awareness of social issues and foster cultural understanding within and beyond the Haitian community.

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Get Your Tickets to Brooklyn Botanic Garden for Mizik Ayiti! Here »

Diaspora NOW
2024-04-13 18:00 - 21:00 UTC | Shapeshifter Lab, 837 Union Street, Brooklyn, NY, 11215, United States
Join us for an evening of premiere presentations featuring multidisciplinary artists: Sheila Anozier, Steeven Labady, Atibon Nazaire, & Nubian Néné who will each present their work and participate in a post-show dialogue.
April 13, 2024
6 – 9pm
Shapeshifter Lab,
837 Union St, Brooklyn, NY 11215

About Diaspora NOW
Diaspora NOW is a platform for literary and performing artists of Haitian descent to premiere works in New York City, offering opportunities for Haitians and the general public to engage with new art that highlights experiences in the Diaspora.

About The Performers
Atibon Nazaire is an actor, musician, visual artist, activist, Brooklyn resident, and proud Haitian.
Atibon has performed in several notable films, series, and national ads. His credits include The Best Man: The Final Chapters, Beauty, FBI, New Amsterdam, Kaleb, Mother of George, Stones in the Sun, Farwell Amor, Gabriel, and Mountains, to name a few. Atibon trained in theater at Roxbury Outreach Shakespeare Experience (ROSE), Boston College, and Harvard University.
A consummate musician, he co-founded the musical groups Batwèl Rada and Tjovi Ginen and now can be seen drumming with different local Haitian alternative bands in dance classes and in Vodoun devotional ceremonies. Atibon is the founder of the Haitian-centered clothing line TWAFÈY, which is known for its talisman collections Brooklyn Loves Haiti and Vodounchild.
Dancer, choreographer, singer and visual artist, Sheila Anozier is a performer and artistic collaborator whose main focus and inspiration is the rich tradition of Haitian art. Notable performances have taken Sheila to venues and festivals across the United States and abroad. She serves as choreographer and dancer to Breaking the Thermometer to Hide the fever – a multidisciplinary performance set to music by Haitian American singer-songwriter, Leyla McCalla, and directed by Kiyoko McCrae. She is company choreographer of Brave New World Repertory Theatre. Sheila is creator and artistic director of Vwa Zansèt – a full length theatrical production based on folkloric and Vodou songs of Haiti. The joy that is released through her art has helped her and others express the intersection of cultures that is so important to the immigrant-based communities that make up America.
Sheila Anozier & Atibon Nazaire will present a staged reading of Mountains by Monica Sorelle — a multigenerational drama that explores the relationships between immigrants and their children resulting in a loving portrait of the Haitian community in Miami.
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Steeven Labady is a captivating performer from Haiti who has won the hearts of audiences around the nation. He is the first Haitian to graduate from the National Conservatory of Arts in Dominican Republic. Award-winning dancer, he has worked tirelessly to collaborate on various projects with artists from around the world.
Steeven has been fortunate to work with innovative performers in the field and is constantly on the search for new and exciting opportunities. If you’d like to learn more about the inspiration, style & work that drives Steeven to success, get in touch to learn more.
Steeven Labady will present “Dancing Pains” along with dancer Judea Lowe and Hadler Chery on vocals.
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Nubian Néné is a Montreal native and a New York-based dancer/choreographer who weaves Street & Club dances to create her unique captivating style. Her resilience and hard work stem from her Haitian roots, enabling her to expand into a producer, creative director, curator, visual artist, teacher, and a reliable asset to the innovative Montreal-based multidisciplinary collective: FRGMNT. Her mentors, some of the pioneers of the Street & Club dance cultures, support, encourage, and inspire her to identify cultural references, to be involved and engaged in community, and through pedagogy help carry the weight of her legacy. Nubian Néné performs with Bboyizm Dance Company’s In My Body and Passion Fruit Dance Company’s Trapped (2021) and Dimensions (in progress). Signature Verses Liberation (2022), an ode to architecture, dance, and drawing, is her first visual art installation, and proof of harmony. A hybrid context, with an amalgam of texture, layers, and patterns examined and imagined by the artist. She’s the creator of Waack Bazaar, The Essence Experience, Glasses & Laces, and choreographer and artistic director of A Lady in The House Dance Company.
This guided improvisation solo work is a testament to the brilliance of African ancestry and its relationship to music, rhythms, and storytelling. How one embraces new movement history, and makes it their own. Being from the diaspora of Ayiti, with access to many other dance forms, one has ample ways to find spiritual, physical, and artistic Freedem.

Ti Atis Second Saturdays at Brooklyn Children's Museum
2024-04-13 14:00 - 16:00 UTC | NY
Bring your “little artists” for an afternoon of creativity hosted by HCX at the Brooklyn Children’s Museum.

2-4 pm
Saturday, April 13th

This event’s guest teacher is artist Emmanuel Elpenord!
Ti Atis (Little Artists) engages youth of Haitian descent and their peers with Haitian history and heritage via the arts, giving young people the tools to build an inclusive and culturally informed future as they learn about diverse art forms from professional Haitian artists.
In this workshop, we will design and build a simple puppet with paper and foam, rods, glue, markers etc; break off into pairs and trios to create short shows with our puppet characters; and finally share them with each other.

As a gift to our email subscribers, we’re offering you the opportunity to sign up for a free ticket. Sign up Today (link in our footer). Ti Atis is included with the cost of entry to the museum. Get a ticket to the museum here »
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About Ti Atis Second Saturdays
This series of events takes place on the second Saturday or each month from December 2023 thru May 2024. Each Saturday will feature a different instructor and art form from our incredibly talented community.

Mizik Ayiti! First Thursdays Featuring Edy Brisseaux
2024-04-04 19:00 - 22:00 UTC | Crown Heights Cafe, 764 Franklin Ave, Brooklyn, NY, 11238
Join Haiti Cultural Exchange on Thursday, April 4th for the FINAL (for now) installment of Mizik Ayiti! First Thursdays Featuring Edy Brisseaux at Crown Heights Cafe.

7 pm – 10 pm

Featured Performers
Edy Brisseaux – Trumpet/Vocalist
Salim Chervet – Saxophone
Ronald Cameau – Guitar

About Edy Brisseaux
Edy Brisseaux is a professional musician with more than forty years of experience. He is also a composer, producer, author and educator. He started his professional career at the age of seventeen. He has collaborated with many bands and artists around the world. He is known as the king of “Raklasikobop”, which is the melange of Classical, Rasin and Bebop music. He will be releasing seven new albums by February 1, 2024, which will be a reflection of his life’s work and the wide range of musical styles that he possesses: Raklasikobop, Latin, French and Rasin.
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RSVPs not required, but highly recommended. Entry is first come, first served, so please make sure to come early if you’d like to grab a spot!

Lakou NOU 2023 Cohort Culminating Event
2024-03-10 19:00 - 22:00 UTC | FiveMyles Gallery, 558 St. John’s Place, Brooklyn, New York, 11213
Join Haiti Cultural Exchange on Sunday, March 10th for the Culminating Event entitled Smile With the Teeth You Have showcasing and celebrating the work of our 2023 Lakou NOU Artists-In-Residence.
Our four incredible artists-in-residences are Emmanuel Elpenord, Laurena Finéus, Ruth Jean-Marie, and Maxine Montilus.
7 – 10 pm
FiveMyles Gallery, 558 St. John’s Pl, Brooklyn, NY 11213

The 2023 Lakou NOU culminating event explores cultural preservation through the art of storytelling and collective memory. This cohort of artists explores themes of communication, sacrifice, dreams, and silence in Brooklyn’s Haitian community through painting, performance art, dance, puppetry, photography, and soundscapes. The heart of this exhibition lies in the release of narratives we so often withhold.
This free event presents the artists’ work in conversation with each other. Each artists’ distinct approach untangles the challenges of hearing one another across generations. The exhibition provides a vital space for the expression of hopes, traumas, wisdom, truths, and humor.
Haiti Cultural Exchange’s Lakou NOU artist residency program provides artists of Haitian descent with the opportunity to create and present new work by connecting their skills and talents to historically underserved Brooklyn neighborhoods, home to generations of Haitians and Haitian-Americans: Crown Heights, Canarsie, East Flatbush, and Flatbush. Lakou NOU artists develop collaborative community engagement projects that address neighborhood issues and highlight community assets. Artists in residence received individualized mentorship from HCX staff and interacted with each other as a cohort through discussion and support around topics relevant to Lakou NOU projects. HCX-facilitated additional professional development workshops with urban planner and activist Dr. Sophonie Joseph, artist Kassandra Khalil, and a consortium of community stakeholders.
Unlike traditional artmaking, where an artistic creation amplifies a sole artist’s perspective, Lakou NOU residents generated this work collaboratively with community members, providing creative outlets to articulate feelings that often elude verbal expression. The artists-in-residence then combined participants’ work with their own art making. The Lakou NOU culminating showcase will include visual art installations and photography, audio soundscapes, a storytelling booth, an art making workshop, a dance performance, and a puppet show.

Emmanuel Elpenord is a proud recipient of a 2024 Grant from The Jim Henson Foundation.

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RSVPs not required, but highly recommended. Entry is first come, first served, so please make sure to come early if you’d like to grab a spot!

Ti Atis Second Saturdays at Brooklyn Children's Museum
2024-03-09 14:00 - 16:00 UTC | Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Avenue, Brooklyn, New York, 11213
Bring your “little artists” for an afternoon of creativity hosted by HCX at the Brooklyn Children’s Museum.

2-4 pm
Saturday, March 9th

This event’s guest teacher is artist Maxine Montilus!
Ti Atis (Little Artists) engages youth of Haitian descent and their peers with Haitian history and heritage via the arts, giving young people the tools to build an inclusive and culturally informed future as they learn about diverse art forms from professional Haitian artists.
In this dance workshop, you’ll explore traditional Haitian dance forms whose ancient roots trace back to Africa and whose unique identity was shaped through a rich history of cultural exchanges in Haiti. You will learn how to embody the polyrhythmic elements of Haitian dance and music as well.

As a gift to our email subscribers, we’re offering you the opportunity to sign up for a free ticket. Sign up Today (link in our footer). Ti Atis is included with the cost of entry to the museum. Get a ticket to the museum here »
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About Ti Atis Second Saturdays
This series of events takes place on the second Saturday or each month from December 2023 thru May 2024. Each Saturday will feature a different instructor and art form from our incredibly talented community.

Mizik Ayiti! First Thursdays with Goussy Célestin's Ayiti Brass
2024-03-07 19:00 - 22:00 UTC | FiveMyles Gallery, 558 St. John’s Place, Brooklyn, New York, 11213
Join Haiti Cultural Exchange on Thursday, March 7th for Mizik Ayiti! First Thursdays with Goussy Célestin’s Ayiti Brass
Goussy Célestin’s Ayiti Brass is a music ensemble that incorporates both sound and movement, inspired by New Orleans’ second-line and Haiti’s Rara traditions with Jazz. Goussy Célestin’s Ayiti Brass (GCAB) has as its mission to engage and awaken audiences in an impactful way, ultimately evoking an experience of connection, openness and possibilities. Their performances encourage participation in song and dance, aiming to leave audiences moved and uplifted.

7 – 10 pm
FiveMyles Gallery, 558 St. John’s Pl, Brooklyn, NY 11213

RSVPs not required, but highly recommended. Entry is first come, first served, so please make sure to come early if you’d like to grab a spot!

"LWA PRAN M" Exhibition Closing
2024-03-01 19:00 - 22:00 UTC | FiveMyles Gallery, 558 St. John’s Place, Brooklyn, New York, 11213
Join us for the closing of our February Vizyon Atistik Artist, Harry Abilhomme’s, exhibition “LWA PRAN M”.

Friday, March 1st
7 pm
FiveMyles Gallery, 558 St Johns Place, Brooklyn, NY 11238

About the Exhibition
The exhibition “Lwa pran m” presents itself as a celebration of spirituality, history, and Haitian life, reinterpreted through a fascinating universe, populated by objects, men, and emotions.
About the Artist
For more than 7 years, Harry Abilhomme, a self-taught and intuitive artist, has left his mark on the art world with daring creations evoking skin-deep sensitivity. Based in Port-au-Prince, New York, and Montreal, he explores the frontiers of contemporary painting using acrylic and mixed techniques, thus offering a unique perspective mixing tradition and innovation.

Sip N' Paint
2024-02-14 19:00 - 22:00 UTC | FiveMyles Gallery, 558 St. John’s Place, Brooklyn, New York, 11213
Join Haiti Cultural Exchange this Valentine’s Day for a special Sip N’ Paint event, led by our Vizyon Atistik artist for the month of February, Harry Abilhomme.
Come alone or with a date — all are welcome to celebrate this day of love through artistic creativity, drinks and treats.
Space is limited, reserve your ticket now – $20 for one person, $35 for two people.

Ti Atis Second Saturdays at Brooklyn Children's Museum
2024-02-10 14:00 - 16:00 UTC | Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Avenue, Brooklyn, New York, 11213
Bring your “little artists” for an afternoon of creativity hosted by HCX at the Brooklyn Children’s Museum.

2-4 pm
Saturday, February 10th

This event’s guest teacher is artist Harry Abilhomme!
Ti Atis (Little Artists) engages youth of Haitian descent and their peers with Haitian history and heritage via the arts, giving young people the tools to build an inclusive and culturally informed future as they learn about diverse art forms from professional Haitian artists.
Join us for “Haitian Carnival in Brooklyn”. February is the time of Carnival in Haiti and in this visual arts workshop, participants will learn about the city of Jacmel, a pillar of Carnival, and many of the artistic aspects of this important time on the island. Participants will get to create their own masks for Carnival!

As a gift to our email subscribers, we’re offering you the opportunity to sign up for a free ticket. Sign up Today (link in our footer).
Ti Atis is included with the cost of entry to the museum. Get a ticket to the museum here »
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About Ti Atis Second Saturdays
This series of events takes place on the second Saturday or each month from December 2023 thru May 2024. Each Saturday will feature a different instructor and art form from our incredibly talented community.

"LWA PRAN M" Exhibition Opening & An n Pale
2024-02-08 19:00 - 22:00 UTC | FiveMyles Gallery, 558 St. John’s Place, Brooklyn, New York, 11213
Join us for the opening of our February Vizyon Atistik Artist, Harry Abilhomme’s, exhibition “LWA PRAN M” with an An n Pale with the artist.

Thursday, February 8th
7 pm
FiveMyles Gallery, 558 St Johns Place, Brooklyn, NY 11238

About the Exhibition
The exhibition “Lwa pran m” presents itself as a celebration of spirituality, history, and Haitian life, reinterpreted through a fascinating universe, populated by objects, men, and emotions.
About the Artist
For more than 7 years, Harry Abilhomme, a self-taught and intuitive artist, has left his mark on the art world with daring creations evoking skin-deep sensitivity. Based in Port-au-Prince, New York, and Montreal, he explores the frontiers of contemporary painting using acrylic and mixed techniques, thus offering a unique perspective mixing tradition and innovation.

Mizik Ayiti! First Thursdays Featuring Tjovi Ginen
2024-02-01 19:00 - 22:00 UTC | FiveMyles Gallery, 558 St. John’s Place, Brooklyn, New York, 11213
Join Haiti Cultural Exchange on Thursday, February 1st for Mizik Ayiti! First Thursdays with Tjovi Ginen
A mainstay in the East Coast music scene, Tjovi Ginen is an ensemble of seasoned musicians representing their Latin, African and American culture and history all supported by Vodou rhythms and Haitian chants. Their lyrics lace each track with Reggae, Ska and Jamaican dub poetry which unfold stories of struggle and triumph, pain and power, and love for each other and ourselves.
Featuring Daniel Laurent on lead vocals, Ferai on vocals, Atibon Nazaire on percussion, Lovell on percussion, Oscar Debe on drums/percussion, Ian Evans on keyboard, Monvelyno Alexis on guitar, and Yoham Chiqui Ortiz on bass. This performance is a tribute to Ralph Gasparello, founding band member and bass player.

7 – 10 pm
FiveMyles Gallery, 558 St. John’s Pl, Brooklyn, NY 11213

RSVPs not required, but highly recommended. Entry is first come, first served, so please make sure to come early if you’d like to grab a spot!

Haiti X New York: Short Documentary Screening & An n pale, "Junior"
2024-01-25 19:00 - 22:00 UTC | FiveMyles Gallery, 558 St. John’s Place, Brooklyn, New York, 11213
Join Haiti Cultural Exchange on Thursday, January 25th for Haiti X New York featuring a screening of the short documentary film “Junior”  followed by a Q & A / An n Pale with filmmaker A.J. Wilhelm and Jérôme “Junior” Siméon.
7 – 10 pm
FiveMyles Gallery, 558 St. John’s Pl, Brooklyn, NY 11213

And stay after the film for a Vodou Jazz Jam featuring Jérôme Siméon (Junior Racine Mapou) & Markus Schwartz on Haitian drums, Bobby Raymond on bass, and JC Maillard on guitar.

ABOUT THE FILM
Year of film: 2021
Country: Haiti
Language: Haitian (English subtitles)
Film length: 11:28
As a gifted teenager Jérôme “Junior” Siméon was recruited by top Haitian roots music group “Racine Mapou de Azor” and spent 20 years touring the world. When the lead singer of his band dies unexpectedly Junior’s high-profile career comes to a shocking halt and he suddenly faces an uncertain future for himself and his legacy.

DIRECTORS BIO
A.J. Wilhelm attended the University of Michigan studying politics, music and film. Following graduation A.J. worked at National Geographic Society in Washington D.C while also performing as a touring musician. This is A.J.’s first film as Director.

RSVPs not required, but highly recommended. Entry is first come, first served, so please make sure to come early if you’d like to grab a spot!

About Haiti X New York
Haiti X New York — Tradisyonak Kilti Tanbou Lakay (Haitian Drum Traditions and Culture) — is an immersive program series by Haiti Cultural Exchange about all things “Tanbou Vodou” in Haiti — happening every Thursday throughout January 2024.
Much gratitude to the National Endowment for the Arts for their support of Haiti X New York.

Haiti X New York: Tanbou Vivan!
2024-01-18 19:00 - 22:00 UTC | FiveMyles Gallery, 558 St. John’s Place, Brooklyn, New York, 11213
Join Haiti Cultural Exchange on Thursday, January 18th for Haiti X New York: Tanbou Vivan! (The Drum is Alive!)
The evening will have a drum performance featuring Junior Racine Mapou, along with Markus Schwartz & invited guests. Hear recollections from Junior on his 25-year career as drummer/drum-maker with Azor and Racine Mapou d’Haiti.
Get a glimpse into the world of drum-making from one of Haiti’s most renowned drum-makers; Jérôme Siméon, aka “Junior Racine Mapou”.
See rare, curated drum content from Markus Schwartz’ personal archives, representing his more than 30 years of research & participation in Haitian drumming traditions, including photos, audio, and video recordings.

7 – 10 pm
FiveMyles Gallery, 558 St. John’s Pl, Brooklyn, NY 11213

RSVPs not required, but highly recommended. Entry is first come, first served, so please make sure to come early if you’d like to grab a spot!

About Haiti X New York
Haiti X New York — Tradisyonak Kilti Tanbou Lakay (Haitian Drum Traditions and Culture) — is an immersive program series by Haiti Cultural Exchange about all things “Tanbou Vodou” in Haiti — happening every Thursday throughout January 2024.
Much gratitude to the National Endowment for the Arts for their support of Haiti X New York.

Ti Atis Second Saturdays at Brooklyn Children's Museum
2024-01-13 14:00 - 16:00 UTC | Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Avenue, Brooklyn, New York, 11213
Bring your “little artists” for an afternoon of creativity hosted by HCX at the Brooklyn Children’s Museum.

2-4 pm
Saturday, January 13th
With Guest Teacher Robenson Mathurin
This workshop will focus on traditional Haitian dance – technique, musically and sharing knowledge about the culture.

Ti Atis (Little Artists) engages youth of Haitian descent and their peers with Haitian history and heritage via the arts, giving young people the tools to build an inclusive and culturally informed future as they learn about diverse art forms from professional Haitian artists.

Ti Atis is included with the cost of entry to the museum. Get a ticket to the museum here »
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About Ti Atis Second Saturdays
This series of events takes place on the second Saturday or each month from December 2023 thru May 2024. Each Saturday will feature a different instructor and art form from our incredibly talented community.

Haiti X New York: Drumming workshop with Jérôme Siméon assisted by Markus Schwartz
2024-01-11 19:00 - 22:00 UTC | FiveMyles Gallery, 558 St. John’s Place, Brooklyn, New York, 11213
Join Haiti Cultural Exchange on Thursday, January 11th for Haiti X New York featuring a drumming workshop with Jérôme “Junior Racine Mapou” Siméon & Markus Schwartz.
The evening will have an interactive demonstration, with audience participation, including rhythms of the “Tanbou Bas” – a family of circular, hand-held, frame drums. These styles of drumming are becoming increasingly rare in Haiti.

7 – 10 pm
FiveMyles Gallery, 558 St. John’s Pl, Brooklyn, NY 11213

RSVPs not required, but highly recommended. Entry is first come, first served, so please make sure to come early if you’d like to grab a spot!

About Haiti X New York
Haiti X New York — Tradisyonak Kilti Tanbou Lakay (Haitian Drum Traditions and Culture) — is an immersive program series by Haiti Cultural Exchange about all things “Tanbou Vodou” in Haiti — happening every Thursday throughout January 2024.
Much gratitude to the National Endowment for the Arts for their support of Haiti X New York.

Mizik Ayiti! First Thursdays | Haiti X New York
2024-01-04 19:00 - 22:00 UTC | FiveMyles Gallery, 558 St. John’s Place, Brooklyn, New York, 11213
Join Haiti Cultural Exchange on Thursday, January 4th for Mizik Ayiti! First Thursdays for Haiti X New York featuring Junior Racine Mapou & Markus Schwartz.
The evening will start with an artist talk with Jérôme Siméon aka “Junior Racine Mapou”, recollections from his 25-year career as drummer/drum-maker with Azor (Lenord Fortuné) and Racine Mapou d’Haiti, followed by a live drumming demonstration performance featuring Junior Racine Mapou & Markus Schwartz.

7 – 10 pm
FiveMyles Gallery, 558 St. John’s Pl, Brooklyn, NY 11213

RSVPs not required, but highly recommended. Entry is first come, first served, so please make sure to come early if you’d like to grab a spot!

About Haiti X New York
Haiti X New York — Tradisyonak Kilti Tanbou Lakay (Haitian Drum Traditions and Culture) — is an immersive program series by Haiti Cultural Exchange about all things “Tanbou Vodou” in Haiti — happening every Thursday throughout January 2024.
Much gratitude to the National Endowment for the Arts for their support of Haiti X NYC.

Bazaar Kreyòl, HCX's Holiday Market
2023-12-10 12:00 - 17:00 UTC | FiveMyles Gallery, 558 St. John’s Place, Brooklyn, New York, 11213
Join us for HCX’s holiday market, Bazaar Kreyòl! Purchase artisan goods for the holidays from a curated array of Haitian vendors, experience live creation of metalwork from Croix-des-Bouquets, Haiti, and enjoy an afternoon of food, drinks, and music.

Sunday, December 10th
12–5 pm
FiveMyles Gallery, 558 St. Johns Pl, Brooklyn, NY 11213

Celebrate the season by supporting Haitian artisans at HCX’s holiday market, Bazaar Kreyòl! Join us for a cozy afternoon to indulge in some Haitian hot chocolate, tea or cremas. Purchase artisan goods for the holidays from a curated array of Haitian vendors, while enjoying the warm musical stylings of Wooly Saint Louis Jean.
You will have a unique opportunity to experience live creation of metalwork, paper-maché and paintings from Croix-des-Bouquets, Haiti, with artists, Josnel Bruno, Serge Jolimeau and Pierre Edgard Satyr, curated by Nathalie Tancrede of ARTisANETWORK. We can’t wait to see you there!
Vendors

Askanya Chocolates
ARTisANETWORK
Bijou Lakay
Bonbon Lakay
Brooklyn Loves Haiti
Cantave de Saint Marc
CremeDeLaKremas
Haitian Bae
Makini Armand
Maryse Felix of Bell’s Kitchen
Perfect Blends
Mythsooka
VB3
VivLiv Books
Yoto and Claire
Zanset Botanica

Artists

Josnel Bruno – metalwork
Serge Jolimeau – metalwork
Pierre Edgard Satyr – paper mâché / paintings

RSVP Here »
RSVPs not required, but highly recommended. Entry is first come, first served, so please make sure to come early if you’d like to grab a spot!

Ti Atis Second Saturdays at Brooklyn Children's Museum
2023-12-09 14:00 - 16:00 UTC | Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Avenue, Brooklyn, New York, 11213
Bring your “little artists” for an afternoon of creativity hosted by HCX at the Brooklyn Children’s Museum.

2-4 pm
Saturday, December 9th
Ti Atis (Little Artists) engages youth of Haitian descent and their peers with Haitian history and heritage via the arts, giving young people the tools to build an inclusive and culturally informed future as they learn about diverse art forms from professional Haitian artists.

Ti Atis is included with the cost of entry to the museum.
Get a ticket to the museum here »
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About Ti Atis Second Saturdays
This series of events takes place on the second Saturday or each month from December 2023 thru May 2024. Each Saturday will feature a different instructor and art form from our incredibly talented community.

Mizik Ayiti! First Thursdays Featuring Riva Nyri Précil
2023-12-07 19:00 - 22:00 UTC | FiveMyles Gallery, 558 St. John’s Place, Brooklyn, New York, 11213
Join Haiti Cultural Exchange Thursday, December 7 for Mizik Ayiti! featuring Riva Nyri Précil.
Riva Précil will perform traditional folklore songs, some of her classic tunes, and will premiere a sneak peek of new material from her upcoming unreleased album.

7 – 10 pm
FiveMyles Gallery, 558 St. John’s Pl, Brooklyn, NY 11213

RSVP on Eventbrite »
RSVPs not required, but highly recommended. Entry is first come, first served, so please make sure to come early if you’d like to grab a spot!

About Riva Nyri Précil
Born in Brooklyn, Riva Nyri Precil grew up in Haiti where she was exposed to and studied under many of the great masters of Haiti’s cultural and artistic scene. Riva received her BA in Music Therapy from Loyola University of New Orleans, became the founder & CEO of a bespoke jewelry company “Love, Nyri” and the author of her Haitian Creole children’s book set in Jacmel, “Anaëlle Ak Lasirèn”.
Her debut solo album in Creole, “Perle De Culture,” is a fusion of traditional Haitian songs, soul, African tones, and jazz elements, followed by a collaborative band album by Bohio Music “Ayiti Nan Kay La” and most recently her children’s lullaby album “Dodo Titit”. Riva also teaches traditional Haitian folklore through a workshop she’s established called “Tout Se Pa” which welcomes all levels to learn the basics of Haitian dance.
Riva’s work embodies the beauty she sees in her heritage through her singing, dancing, jewelry designs and writing. Riva continues to perform in New York City and globally and is working on her next studio album set to release Spring 2024.

Mizik Ayiti! First Thursdays Featuring Foula
2023-11-02 19:00 - 22:00 UTC | FiveMyles Gallery, 558 St. John’s Place, Brooklyn, New York, 11213
Join Haiti Cultural Exchange Thursday, November 2nd for Mizik Ayiti! First Thursdays featuring Foula.
7pm Doors
7:30pm An n Pale (Let’s Talk) — a conversation with the artists
8pm Performance
About Foula
Foula has an extensive performance history, presenting their highly original and artistic take on Vodou Jazz at festivals and concert halls throughout Haiti, the Caribbean, the US and beyond, but the chance to experience a reunion of this musical legacy has become exceedingly rare.
This incarnation of the band features 3 original Foula members: Gaston (Bonga) Jean-Baptiste (tanbou/percussion/vocals) Jean-Raymond Giglio aka Sanba Kebyesou (tanbou/percussion/vocals) Yves (Chico) Boyer (bass/percussion/vocals) Along with two long-time collaborators and perennial Foula disciples; Paul Austerlitz (sax/clarinet/flute), and Markus Schwartz (drumkit/tanbou/ percussion).
This performance of Foula’s music is dedicated to the great composer and musicologist Wilfred “Tido” Lavaud, who “crossed over” in 2020, as well as to Foula member Thurgot Theodat, currently residing in France.

About Haiti Cultural Exchange
Haiti Cultural Exchange is a nonprofit organization established to develop, present, and promote the cultural expressions of the Haitian people. Support Haitian arts and culture with a donation to Haiti Cultural Exchange today.

RSVPs not required, but highly recommended. Entry is first come, first served, so please make sure to come early if you’d like to grab a spot!
Reserver Your Spot »

Mizik Ayiti Sunday Jazz Brunch
2023-10-01 - 2023-10-22 | Crown Heights Cafe, 764 Franklin Ave, Brooklyn, NY, 11238
Haiti Cultural Exchange Presents “Mizik Ayiti: Sunday Jazz Brunch at Crown Heights Cafe” featuring the Gashford Guillaume Quartet.
Spend the month of October celebrating Haitian jazz music with the Crown Heights community!  Join us on Sundays this October to enjoy jazz and tasty treats & drinks!
October 1st, 8th, 15th, & 22nd*
2-4 pm
Crown Heights Cafe, 764 Franklin Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238
*Bring down the house with us for the FINAL Mizik Ayiti Sunday Jazz Brunch at Crown Heights Cafe on Sunday, October 22nd with the Gashford Guillaume “Quintet” featuring: Gashford Guillaume (drums), Yayoi Ikawa (Keyboards). Jeremy Powell (Sax). Michael Obrian (Bass), and Okai Fleurimont (Haitian drums & percussion).

Paul Beaubrun & Zing Experience!
2023-08-19 17:00 - 22:00 UTC | NY
Haiti Cultural Exchange presents Paul Beaubrun & Zing Experience featuring Sanba Zao!

Film Screening & Performance
5-10:30 PM
Brower Park
St Mark’s Ave, Park Pl between Brooklyn Ave and Kingston Ave
Paul Beaubrun & Zing Experience featuring Sanba Zao go on at 7:30 PM
Paul Beaubrun & Zing Experience Extended Performance
10:45 PM
Salon on Kingston
105 Kingston Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213

In partnership with Rooftop Films for the premiere of Kaveh Nabatian’s film “Kite Zo A: Leave the Bones” at Brower Park, the evening will include music and dance activations, Haitian vendors, a vibrant performance by Paul Beaubrun & Zing Experience and a screening of the film. Join us after the screening for an extended performance by Paul Beaubrun & Zing Experience at Salon On Kingston. This event is also in partnership with Council Member Chi Osse and I Am Carribeing.

RVSP’s encouraged! RSVP Here »

Wooly Saint-Louis Jean & KreyòlDjaz
2023-08-16 18:00 - 21:00 UTC | FiveMyles Gallery, 558 St. John’s Place, Brooklyn, New York, 11213
Join us at HCX’s home-base, FiveMyles Gallery, to experience the debut of Wooly Saint-Louis Jean & KreyòlDjaz!
August 16th
6-9pm
FiveMyles Gallery, 558 St Johns Pl, Brooklyn, NY 11238

Singer/Guitarist Wooly Saint-Louis Jean “Le Chanteur Des Poètes” is a beloved curator of both songs and poems from Haiti’s vast reservoir of literary traditions, with a warm and engaging stage presence, a deep sonorous voice and a unique ability to bring written verse to life through song.

Bassist Bobby Raymond is a journeyman musician who continues to perform and record with a veritable “who’s-who” of Haiti’s finest musicians. Bobby’s ability to play in any style, his facility on both electric and acoustic basses, and his supportive and intuitive musical gifts are admired throughout the Haitian music community and beyond.

Reed player, composer, and ethnomusicologist Paul Austerlitz combines his background as an ethnomusicologist specializing in Afro-Caribbean music with his creative work as a jazz musician. Paul weds his backgrounds in jazz and ethnomusicology, producing works that incorporate the musics that he researches. He has been especially active in blending Latin and Caribbean music from the Dominican Republic and elsewhere with free forms of jazz.

Markus Schwartz is a Grammy-nominated percussionist, recording artist & educator, specializing in the traditional drum music of Haiti. As a life-long student of Vodou drumming, Markus has deep roots in the Haitian music community, and is a sought-after collaborator across musical genres, bringing his informed approach to Haitian percussion to a wide array of projects and performances.

RSVP HERE »

Mizik Ayiti with Goussy Célestin's Ayiti Brass
2023-07-13 19:00 - 20:00 UTC | Brooklyn Botanic Garden, 990 Washington Avenue, Brookyln, NY, United States
Join us at Brooklyn Botanic Garden on Thursday, July 13th, for Mizik Ayiti featuring Goussy Célestin’s Ayiti Brass!
7 PM | Brooklyn Botanic Garden, Cherry Esplanade
FREE with Garden Admission
Garden Tickets Available Here »
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About The Artist
Goussy Célestin’s Ayiti Brass is a music ensemble that incorporates both sound and movement, inspired by New Orleans’ second-line and Haiti’s Rara traditions with Jazz. The mission is to engage and awaken audiences in an impactful way, ultimately evoking an experience of connection, openness and possibilities. Their performances encourage participation in song and dance, aiming to leave audiences moved and uplifted.
Brooklyn born Haitian-American artist Goussy Célestin interchanges the roles of pianist, composer, vocalist, dancer, and arranger with ease.
Goussy has performed for the last two decades for audiences both locally and internationally. After graduating from the Highschool of Music & The Performing Arts in New York City, Goussy continued her studies with such esteemed artists as Ron Carter, Jimmy Heath, Donald Byrd, Barry Harris, Jaki Byard and Sheila Jordan.
Goussy’s current mission integrates all of her disciplines in her project, Goussy Célestin’s Ayiti Brass, incorporating elements of traditional Haitian folklore and Jazz.
She is a faculty member for music education programs at Jazz at Lincoln Center. She is also a mother to two sons, her “greatest creative compositions”. Goussy leads classes and performances for neurodiverse families with Lincoln Center’s Passport and Big Umbrella programs.
Her awards include, Laundromat Project: Create Change Fellow, Queens Council on the Arts, Gardarev Residency, Field Leadership Fund, and Space @ Ryder Farm Residency. She was a featured vocalist for Rattlestick Theater, and was a workshop facilitator for The Mile Long Opera. She leads music workshops for Bobby McFerrin’s CircleSongs School and The Metropolitan Opera in NYC.
During the pandemic, Goussy completed an advanced vocal improvisation workshop, “All The Way In”, led by vocal dynamo, Rhiannon and received a commissioning grant from Mutual Mentorship for Musicians. Currently, Goussy is a recipient of New York State Council on the Arts’ Support For Artists Award, as well as having just received the NYC Women’s Fund grant from the Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment and New York Foundation for the Arts, for her upcoming recording release in 2024.

Ti Atis in the Garden
2023-07-08 14:00 - 16:00 UTC | NY
Join us on Saturday, July 8th for Ti Atis in the Garden!
Westbrook Memorial Garden, 1233 Pacific St., Brooklyn, NY 11216
Ti Atis (Little Artists) is an intergenerational program that aims to teach and engage youth and their families about Haitian culture and history, through a series of activities and performances facilitated by Haitian artists.
No registration is required.
July 8th, 2023
2-4pm
Alexandra Jean-Joseph & Sky Menesky of Imamou Lele: drumming & movement
**This is event was rescheduled due to weather from the previous date of June 24th**

Selebrasyon!
2023-06-15 - 2023-06-24 | FiveMyles Gallery, 558 St. John’s Place, Brooklyn, New York, 11213
Join us for two weekends in June to celebrate Haitian music, dance, film, and art.
Thursday, June 15 | 6 – 11pm
Opening Night of Selebrasyon! 2023: Records & Rhum
Opening night dance party spinning old school Haitian Vinyl with DJ Hard Hittin’ Harry and a Konpa demonstration by Robenson Mathurin
Free / $10 Suggested Donation
@ FiveMyles Gallery
Friday, June 16 | 6 – 9pm
A Haitian Culinary Experience
Explore Haitian cuisine with a grazing table, cooking demonstration and more featuring Chef Natacha Gomez
Free / $10 Suggested Donation | RSVP REQUIRED
@ FiveMyles Gallery
Saturday, June 17 | 6 – 9pm
Solo Dance Performances Featuring Steeven Labady, Nubian Néné & Live Haitian Drumming
Free / $10 Suggested Donation
@ FiveMyles Gallery
Sunday, June 18 | 6 – 9pm
Haiti Film Night
New York premier of ‘AGWE’ by Samuel Suffren & Haiti Film Fest 2022 Select, ‘Toro La Cou’ by Pierre-Michel Jean
Free / $10 Suggested Donation
@ FiveMyles Gallery
Thursday, June 22 | 6 – 9pm
Teyat Kreyòl: A Night of Theatrical Performances featuring Schneider Laurent & Billy Midi with Live Music Accompaniment by Wooly Saint-Louis Jean.
Free / $10 Suggested Donation
@ FiveMyles Gallery
Friday, June 23 | 6 – 10pm
Lakou Nou Re-Envisioned: Art Exhibition and Soundscape featuring Steven Baboun & Lalin St. Juste
Free / $10 Suggested Donation
@ FiveMyles Gallery
Saturday, June 24 | 6 – 9pm
Closing Night of Selebrasyon! 2023: Live! Featuring Darline Desca and Plezi Rara
Free / $10 Suggested Donation
@ FiveMyles Gallery

View all the events and register here »
