Haiti

Bruce Gilden's Haiti is a poignant photographic exploration of a country marked by beauty and hardship, revealing its rich culture and ongoing challenges.

In Haiti, Bruce Gilden provides a profound exploration of a country that is both captivating and tragic. His journey began in 1984 when he set out to document the vibrant Mardi Gras celebrations in Port-au-Prince. This initial visit sparked a deep fascination with the nation, prompting Gilden to return repeatedly to capture its essence through his lens. The first edition of Haiti was published in 1996, showcasing a collection of striking photographs that reflect the complexities of the nation’s culture and struggles.

This new expanded edition of Haiti includes 40 additional images taken up until 2010, further enriching Gilden’s vision of the country. Each photograph tells a story, revealing the beauty and resilience of the Haitian people amidst the backdrop of persistent challenges. Despite its proximity to the United States, Haiti remains the least-developed country in the Western Hemisphere, grappling with the consequences of its tumultuous history.

Haiti's journey to independence in the early 19th century came with the burden of an 'independence debt,' which was not settled until 1947. The nation has faced chronic instability, dictatorships, and devastating natural disasters, resulting in its current status as the poorest nation in the Americas. Gilden’s work serves as both a tribute to the spirit of Haiti and a call to acknowledge its ongoing struggles.