"the tall tree says it sees far, the wandering seed says it sees more" – Haitian proverb

Between May 20 – June 19, 2018 a dozen Grand Valley State University (GVSU) students and three faculty traveled to Haiti as part of a study abroad program. The course, led by Professor Peter Wampler (Geology/Frederik Meijer Honors College), was designed to allow students from various backgrounds the opportunity to experience Haitian culture and gain an understanding of daily life in rural Haiti. In addition, students participated in a variety of service learning and community-based teaching experiences, allowing them to contribute their energy toward real-world problems in Haiti. During the first week of the trip, Assistant Professor Ellen Adams (Art Gallery/Frederik Meijer Honors College) also assisted in mediating experiences with Haitian artists and art collectives at various sites.

Included in this exhibition are narratives and reflections by both the faculty and students who participated in the trip. Additionally, a number of photographs document their encounters, and a variety of original Haitian paintings, voodoo flags, metal art and masks attest to the vibrant and diverse artistic culture in the country.

Resources

Want to know more about Haiti and the water filters used in this project? Or how you can get involved with a study abroad program? Check out these resources:

• Safe and Sustainable Water for Haiti
• Empowering Haiti through Education
• Study abroad with the Padnos International Center
• The Haiti Study Abroad Program

Location:

July 12 - December 13, 2019
Blue Wall Gallery
Richard M. DeVos Center, Building B
Robert C. Pew Grand Rapids Campus
Grand Rapids, MI 49504

Gallery hours are reflective of the Devos Center, including changes made due to semester, holiday, or campus-wide event.

(previous exhibition)
July 20 – December 14, 2018
Red Wall Gallery
130 Lake Ontario Hall 
Allendale, Michigan 49401