Haiti has a rich and unique artistic tradition shaped by its history of diverse cultural influences. These influences find expression in Haitian music, religion, and art.

Many Haitian artists plan their designs on paper before transferring them to the metal oil drums for cutting. Select the "Activity" link for directions on how to make a Haitian-inspired paper cutout design.

Haitian Visions: A Diverse Cultural Legacy

Share Haiti's rich cultural and artistic traditions with your students, while also inspiring them with the resourcefulness that the people of Haiti have shown through difficult circumstances brought on by dire poverty and devastating natural disasters.

In this curriculum—as in the country itself—the influences of native Caribbean, Spanish, French, African, and North American cultures have persevered to create a fresh, new form of expression.

Dear Colleague,

If you have read my September letter in previous years, you will recall that I always have to mention something about the hot temperatures we are still "enjoying" in the desert. As each day holds the promise that cooler temperatures are on the way, we relish the beginning of the school year.

If you check our calendar for this month and the next, you'll no doubt notice something new—a lot of book signings! Kitty and Stevie are very excited to be out and about promoting their new book, Day of the Dead. If you're in the Tucson area, we hope you'll join us for one (or more!) of these events. And if not, no worries. You can order your signed copy here and we'll ship it right out to you.

CRIZMAC offers a wide variety of classes, workshops, lectures, and staff development sessions throughout the year. While many of these events are held at our Tucson headquarters or other local venues, we are often invited to speak at districts around the country. In addition, our classroom is available for rental to other organizations for their events.

Click on the "See Calendar" link for details as well as a complete list of upcoming events.

CRIZMAC's Journeys of Art and Soul travel programs provide in-depth experiences with art, culture and tradition. What a wonderful way to rejuvenate your spirit and well-being while earning professional development and/or graduate credit! Our Days of the Dead tour in Oaxaca Mexico, October 27 - November 3, 2011, is now available for registration. This remarkable trip is one of our most popular. Check out the many trip highlights on our day-by-day itinerary and you'll see why! We hope this will be the year you join us for a fantastic adventure!