ART SCHOOL JERRY, founded by Charles Art Jerry in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, was established as a platform for students to explore and express their cultural heritage through art. Since 2016, the school has provided free art education focused on themes central to Haitian identity. As Charles explains, “they like to paint about Voodoo culture.” The students’ works reflect their immersion in local customs and their engagement with the school’s teachings, producing works which blend traditional knowledge with modern influences and familiar childhood imagery. The vibrancy and depth of the students’ work have attracted collectors from around the world, drawn by the striking imagery of otherworldly characters influenced by a confluence of global pop culture and local religious traditions.

The significance of ART SCHOOL JERRY extends beyond cultural preservation and art education; it provides a refuge from the daily challenges faced by its students. Haiti’s ongoing political instability and economic insecurity profoundly affect these young artists and their families, making the school’s supportive environment essential. Beyond the development of unique visual language, these works urge viewers to view conflict through the eyes of children whose lives are shaped by these insecurities. They reveal the resilience of young people navigating difficult times and underscore the centrality of community practices and the endurance of Haitian cultural heritage.

The school also provides an economic vehicle to support students and their families. As Charles notes, “the problem the students face in their lives is the problem of insecurity increasing day by day, and their families are victims as well.” Not only does art education offer a critical outlet, helping students process and confront these difficulties through creative expression. Moreover, the school’s model of returning 75% of artwork sales to the students provides vital financial support, often enabling families to relocate from urban to rural areas for a more stable life.

Charles Art Jerry’s vision for ART SCHOOL JERRY is rooted in his personal artistic journey and dedication to his community. Since beginning his career in 2014, Charles has used his art to depict the spiritual and cultural narratives of Haitian Voodoo, channeling this passion into his teaching. “What they learn from ART SCHOOL JERRY is to know about their culture,” he explains, emphasizing his commitment to guiding students in both technical skills and cultural storytelling. Despite numerous obstacles, including the pandemic and political unrest, Charles remains determined to expand the school’s reach, aiming to empower more young artists and foster a deeper connection to their cultural roots through art.