Hailing from Port-au-Prince, Haiti, and now based in New York City, Steven Baboun has spent years carving out a unique space for himself in the world of visual arts. His journey began in his youth, with a burgeoning passion for photography that would eventually blossom into a significant presence within the Haitian creative community.
Baboun’s artistry spans photography, cinematography, and beyond, earning him a devoted following on social media. One of his standout creations is Marie-Claude Bebi, a Haitian comedic digital persona born during the 2020 pandemic. This character showcases Baboun’s talent for blending humor and cultural commentary, capturing the hearts of audiences worldwide.
As the founder and creative director of Studio Baboun, a Brooklyn-based creative house, Baboun has built a space for innovative artistic collaboration. He is also the co-founder, CEO, and creative force behind NativRoots Collective, a New York-based creative agency specializing in content production and development. NativRoots collaborates with artists, businesses, visionaries, and NGOs, helping bring their visual projects to life.
Baboun’s educational background is as impressive as his portfolio. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Film and Media Arts, with a minor in Education Studies from American University, and a Master of Fine Arts in Photography from Parsons School of Design. His academic achievements reflect his commitment to mastering the visual arts and pushing the boundaries of his craft.
Baboun’s connection to visual storytelling began at just 14 years old, experimenting with photography, literature, and video. In 2022, he founded Studio Baboun, which serves as a vibrant hub for creativity, color, and innovation. Collaborating with artists and brands from around the globe, the studio provides a platform for professionals to create, express, and share their visions. Its offerings include photography, video production, graphic design, installations, and artistic productions.
“I’ve had the privilege of working with artists I deeply admire,” Baboun shares. Among his collaborators are Haitian luminaries such as Michaël Brun, Paul Beaubrun, Naïka, Riva Nyri Précil, KANIS, Bacheler Jean Pierre, Sabine Blaizin, and Oya Sound, showcasing his dedication to highlighting Haitian talent.
What drives Steven Baboun in his artistic pursuits? For him, it’s all about representing Haiti.
“I’ve always and will always stay true to my country, Haiti. Since I was young, I hated how the media and other countries always portrayed or thought of us. It was always a negative perception, sometimes even hurtful. I wanted to counter that with my art. Everything I do and create is to show the true Haiti and represent us.”
“I see myself as someone who is constantly evolving in every field I engage in. I see myself as a vessel to uplift Haitian arts and culture.” “I don’t just work to create images, videos, etc., but also to inspire other young Haitians to see that they can achieve their dreams, no matter the challenges.”
His message to aspiring artists is clear: believe in yourself. Baboun emphasizes that faith in one’s talent and perseverance are the keys to overcoming challenges and achieving success.
It is this unwavering dedication to originality and innovation that has propelled Steven Baboun to both national and international acclaim. His work continues to inspire, elevate, and redefine how Haitian art and culture are perceived around the world.
