Today we spoke with Joanne Hyppolite, curator from the brand new Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C.. Joanne will be speaking at the 27th Annual Conference of the Museums Association of the Caribbean (MAC) about how Museum staff  at NMAAHC built an entire collection from scratch! Here’s what Joanne has to say…

  1. What do you consider to be the biggest opportunity for museums in the Caribbean?
    The important role Caribbean museums can play in educating visitors (local and foreign) about the people, history, culture and arts of the Caribbean is invaluable.
  2. If you could describe your organisation in one word what would it be?
    NEW!  Because we literally just opened on Sept. 24, 2016 after a 100 year struggle to establish this museum in Washington DC. Being NEW means we have taken advantage of the latest research, technology and exhibition development strategies. It also means we look pretty amazing right now – from the inspiring architectural form of the building to our exhibitions.
  3. What makes your Museum or institution essential to your community?
    We are the newest Smithsonian museum and the first dedicated to the African American experience.. Our motto:  A People’s Journey, A Nation’s Story captures our two essential elements. This is an American story, told through an African American lens. We define our community as everyone because this museum seeks to help all people understand the African American experience and because Smithsonian visitation is nationally and internationally diverse.
  4. Can you share one of your favourite moments of working in the cultural and heritage sector?  
    My current favorite moment is curating the Cultural Expressions gallery which includes objects and stories from other parts of the African diaspora. I am Caribbean-born and enjoyed finding ways to incorporate stories and objects about culture from the Caribbean.
  5. What was the last picture you took with your phone?
    A picture of a rich photography book that I saw on Haitian cuisine called Haiti Uncovered. I am always seeking to improve my Haitian cooking skills so I can get as halfway as wonderful as my mother. She makes food that is souse dwet (finger-licking) good!

    To learn more about NMAAHC – Click here!

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