Discovering a piece of Haiti along the streets of Uptown

At just under 600 square feet the space packs a punch in artistic representation and education of the island of Haiti and its people.

The thing I love best about living in Uptown is that there’s always something new to discover. Usually something unexpected and interesting. Such was the case a week ago as I walked my pup along Racine Avenue I noticed a window display with artwork and the Haitian flag on display. It was closed but I peeked and saw several paintings and artifacts hanging from the walls.

I returned a couple days later, this time the space welcomed visitors and was greeted by Carlos Bossard, who informed me that I had just walked into the Haitian American Museum of Chicago.

Carlos, who serves as executive director, gave me a tour of what he calls “a small but mighty space” and indeed it is.

At just under 600 square feet the space packs a punch in artistic representation and education of the island of Haiti and its people. I was impressed by Carlo’s deep knowledge and passion for not only the artists on display but the history of the island it shares with the Dominican Republic.

HAMOC was founded in 2012 by Haitian born Elsie Hernandez in her quest to bring the richness of Haitian culture into the folds of Chicago’s diversity.

I enjoyed learning about Haitian culture while I admired every single one of the well curated pieces in the museum. In an effort to share a bit more about HAMOC with my fellow uptowners I sent over a few questions to Carlos about the origins of the organization and encourage everyone to stop by soon. You won’t be disappointed!

Chat with Carlos Bossard, Executive Director of HAMOC.

How did HAMOC get started?

Elsie’s dream of opening the Haitian American Museum of Chicago (HAMOC) began in 2000 in her backyard with some friends soon after a return trip from Hati. The extreme poverty she experienced on the trip had an effect on her identity and compassion for her people. In 2010 Elsie travelled back to her home country after a family death and the earthquake. Upon returning she used these events as a catalyst to finally open the museum.

The doors opened on November 18, 2012. A major goal of the museum is to change the narrative of what people know about Haiti. People know about the earthquakes, hurricanes, assassination and now the immigration crisis. People forget about the Haitian society’s vibrancy and resiliency.

How is it that Uptown was chosen as the museum’s home?

Uptown is one of the most, if not the most, diverse neighborhoods in Chicago. Because of this, it was important to add a Haitian voice and create a space for Haitian art, culture and history to thrive. HAMOC has been in Uptown since the beginning and would like to continue to be a part of this community.

How did the museum navigate the challenges of the past year and a half?

I started in 2019 as an intern and came into the Executive Director role in June 2020. A huge challenge and greatest moment was COVID-19 and the unforeseen barriers the HAMOC and its team had to overcome. From keeping the museum open (with no visitors), to community engagement, programming and writing emergency grants, it was no small task. It is truly because of the dedication of Elsie and our team of volunteers and interns that allowed the museum to, honestly, stay in business. I am proud to have led the museum through this difficult time.

How do Haitian artists go about being featured among your collection?

The museum saves its temporary exhibition space for new and upcoming Haitian and Chicago artists. A lot of the time these artists are exhibiting for the first time ever in their professional career. HAMOC prides itself in using its platform to uplift and elevate these artists.

If someone is looking to be featured in the exhibition, or donate a piece to the collection, they can contact us via email or phone to start that conversation. We have also added virtual exhibitions to our exhibition capacity, which can be a great starting point for a new collaboration.

Current artist in residence Jean-Yves, view his personal website.

To learn more about the museum visit the Artist Page.

You can make a donation to support future efforts.

Learn more about HAMOC’s team of staff and board members.