Haiti Cultural Exchange (HCX) will continue its Haiti X New York (HXNY) residency program with a series of week-long residencies and exhibits until April 13.
The initiative, which brings Haiti-based artists to engage with the diaspora and New York City’s residents and visitors, kicked off with an opening reception on Sunday, March 16, according to a press release.
HCX is a nonprofit organization developing and promoting the cultural expression of the Haitian people. The event will include a workshop on Haitian craftsmanship on March 29 and a fashion show paired with an intimate conversation moderated by designer Garvenchy Nicolas on April 11.
It will also feature award-winning Haitian designer Michel Chataigne in an exhibition celebrating his 40-year contribution to fashion and culture.
“Michel Chataigne has worked endlessly to ensure that he is a master of his crafts. Haiti Cultural Exchange is honored to host his impeccably crafted garments for public viewing. Our series of events is sure to capture the spirit of his creativity and the spirit of Haiti," said Haiti Cultural Exchange Executive Director Regine Roumain.
Chataigne's career spans fashion, hair, and makeup. He coordinated Haiti Fashion Week in 2013 and has operated a hair salon in Port-au-Prince for more than 30 years.
With academic achievements spanning the Caribbean, the United States, and Europe, he has used his background in international relations and creativity to bridge fashion with broader cultural narratives.
“My journey has been a series of interactions. It has included a background in international relations, my own inherent creativity and a true muse that is Haiti," he said.
"These intersections are why I have delved into fashion, hair and make-up--they are industries that seem superficial, but are substantive once you engage with it, once you intersect it with reality and other seemingly more serious topics.”
