About
Kolektif Atis Jakmel (KOLAJ) is an artist envisioned and led movement founded in 2010 as a proactive solution for Jacmel, Haiti’s art community devastated by the January 12th, 2010 earthquake. Committed to not just providing short-term aid but working together to develop a structure and art center that provides continued opportunities for artists; KOLAJ envisions a thriving art community in Jacmel built upon a new generation of artists positively contributing to the local economy and culture through their art.
OUR PHILOSOPHY
We believe that art plays an important role in Haitian culture and now, more than ever, Haiti needs a strong culture to be proud of. Art has the power to heal and as artists we can inspire and engage our community through our work. Haitians have the ability and responsibility to develop true solutions to the many problems Haiti faces as a nation and together we can realize the full potential of arts and culture in Jacmel. We believe in Haiti.
OUR MISSION
Kolektif Atis Jakmèl is an artist led movement dedicated to developing sustainable artistic livelihoods and enriching our community through the power of artistic creativity.
Sustainable Artistic Livelihoods: While Jacmel artists need resources to resume working now, KOLAJ also understands the importance of empowering artists with the necessary skills to become more self-sufficient for the future. The primary programming of the collective will be in the form of workshops that target specific techniques and related artistic competencies. Reaching out to both senior artists from Jacmel and artists from abroad, KOLAJ will open opportunities for artists to explore new techniques and refine current skills here in Jacmel. Workshops will also be used to develop computer, communication and professional skills as well as a deeper knowledge of art history.
This notion of on-going artistic education is essential as formal opportunities for art training are rare in Haiti and artists need the proper skills to secure exhibitions and actively participate as professional members in the current art world.
Artistic Creativity: In reenergizing Jacmel’s art community, KOLAJ also looks to build a stronger connection between artists and the general public. Despite Jacmel’s rich cultural history, Jacmelians have traditionally had limited opportunities to interact with art. This has led to a general misunderstand of artists, with many considering it to not be a “legitimate” profession.
Through cultural events and workshops targeted at the general public, especially youth, Jacmelians will be able to experience and learn from the positive aspects of art. Just as art courses are offered in schools to inspire creativity, innovation and new perspectives, these art-based qualities are essential for citizens of a better and new Haiti. The wealth of artistic and cultural potential in Jacmel needs to be accessible by the whole community.
JACMEL
With the amount of artistic activity happening in Jacmel (Jakmèl in Kreyol), it is easy to understand why it is considered the cultural capital of a nation said to have more artists per capita than anywhere else in the world. Founded in 1968, the southern port city once known for its economic significance as a producer of coffee, essential oils, sugar and other agricultural products, now struggles with the political and economic realities of a nation facing the task of trying to rebuild after the January 12th, 2010 earthquake.
Jacmel has produced some of the nation’s finest painters, artisans and writers as well as hosting events such as the Jakmel Mizik Festival, Jacmel Film Festival and an annual Karnaval, the most attended in Haiti. Tourism development plans highlight this cultural influence as one of Haiti’s main draws for tourism and investments are being made to develop hotels and infrastructure in the area, yet Jacmel lost its central art center and gallery space in the earthquake.
Despite their tragic loss, the pride of Jacmelians for their city remains firmly intact, providing a sense of peace and stability hard to find elsewhere in Haiti. With its rich history and generally safe environment, Jacmel provides the perfect opportunity for individuals to begin to experience and understand Haiti.
To learn more about KOLAJ we encourage you to contact us with your questions.
Kolektif Atis Jakmèl is a Haitian Association incorporated in September 2010. It is supported by Friends of KOLAJ, a project and restricted fund of The Philanthropic Initiative, a Boston, Massachusetts 501(c)3 organization, allowing for tax-exempt donations and grant funding to support the activities of KOLAJ.
