By Foresee Foundation
The @ColorMeSXM “Philipsburg Art Walk” project, spearheaded by Be The Change Foundation, continues to weave a tapestry of colour and inspiration throughout Philipsburg. Over the past few months, two new murals have been added, bringing the total to an impressive 24 murals. The project aims to beautify and diversify Philipsburg, creating a vibrant and engaging environment for residents and visitors alike.
Artist Bernica Michel was officially recognized and thanked for her invaluable contribution to the project. Her mural titled “The Lion King” is a stunning depiction of African King Sundiata Keita, a visionary leader who sought to uplift his people through wealth and the establishment of laws on human rights.
Bernica shared her inspiration behind the piece, stating, “This artwork is dedicated to challenging the stereotypical image of the black man and shedding light on black history that often goes untaught in schools. By showcasing the achievements of people who look like you, we can inspire action and empower others to create change.”
Adjacent to Bernica’s thought-provoking mural is the second new addition, impossible to miss. This mural showcases a vibrant and colourful landscape, incorporating the iconic symbols of Sint Maarten – the Brown Pelican and Yellow Sage, representing the island’s national bird and flower, respectively. The mural was commissioned for the 2023 Royal Visit in March, and to add a touch of royalty, Princess Amalia personally assisted artist Adam G in adding the finishing touches.
As you wander through the streets of Philipsburg, take a moment to appreciate the transformative power of art. The murals not only add visual splendour to the town, but also ignite conversations, challenge perceptions, and celebrate the rich heritage and natural beauty of Sint Maarten.
So join the Philipsburg Art Walk, marvel at the newly added murals, and let their beauty and messages leave an indelible mark. The foundation urges everyone to share their experiences by posting their pictures on social media platforms and tagging @ColorMeSXM with the hashtags #stmaarten and #sxm.
For more information on the project, download the @ColorMeSXM Philipsburg Art Walk self-guided map: www.colormesxm.com
Photo: From left: Be The Change (BTC) Foundation President Melanie Choisy, Artist Bernica Michel, and BTC Project Coordinator Laura Bijnsdorp.
