Akron, OH – The Akron Art Museum proudly presents Myrlande Constant: DRAPO, a powerful and visually stunning exhibition that celebrates the work of one of Haiti’s most prominent contemporary artists. On view from August 9, 2025, through January 4, 2026, Myrlande Constant: DRAPO explores Constant’s textile works, each one hand-embroidered with sequins, beads, and fabric to tell rich spiritual and cultural stories rooted in Haitian Vodou.
Constant’s artwork draws from the tradition of drapo Vodou, ceremonial flags historically used in spaces of worship. Over time, drapo evolved into an acclaimed art form, collected and exhibited around the world. In the early 2000s, Constant became the first woman leader within this artistic field, revolutionizing its aesthetic by introducing more complex compositions, new and intricate techniques, and a larger collaborative studio model that has launched the careers of many fellow artists.
The centerpiece of the exhibition is Sosyete Radha, a recent major acquisition by the Akron Art Museum (shown in the included image above). Sosyete Radha measures nearly nine feet wide and eight feet tall and honors a Vodou society that emphasizes emotional warmth, stability, and spiritual protection. At its center, a figure dressed in white, the symbolic color of Radha worshippers, transforms into a tree, bridging the spiritual and earthly realms. Created in 2024 during a time of great social and political turmoil in Haiti, this monumental work reflects both hope and resilience.
With every sequin sewn by hand, Constant’s art glitters with light, color, and exquisite detail. But beyond their visual splendor, these flags speak to deeper themes of Haitian identity, Afro-Caribbean heritage, resilience, and faith. Visitors will be immersed in narratives that intertwine West African, Central African, and Catholic religious traditions, echoing Vodou’s rich syncretic roots.
“I am delighted that our community in Akron will have a chance to experience Myrlande Constant’s dazzling artwork,” says Senior Curator Jeffrey Katzin, who oversaw this exhibition. “The color and detail of her tapestries are truly enthralling to see in person. Every bead, sequin, and stitch provides evidence of the skill and devotion of Constant and the artists in her workshop, and of the rich history of Haiti and the Vodou religion. It is also particularly special that this exhibition serves as the debut of Sosyete Radha as part of the Museum’s permanent collection, so that the show will introduce our audience to an artist whose work will be on view in our galleries for years to come.”
For media inquiries, additional photos, or in-person visits, please contact Matt Hribar at mhribar@akronartmuseum.org.