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Aruba is not just a tropical paradise. It’s a center of Caribbean art and culture.
Expect lively music and dance, colorful crafts and literature, and influences from around the world.
Whether you’re an art lover or a history buff, there really is something for everyone. And it’s all here for you to explore. Let us give you a glimpse of traditional Caribbean art, and your desire to visit the One Happy Island will surely continue to grow…
How we look at traveling has shifted in recent years with the rise of social media.
Aruba has three dedicated art schools to nourish the creative talents of our local community and students from abroad.
Expand your art collection or simply browse the vibrant Caribbean and local art that colors our cultural landscape.
Explore our fascinating and diverse heritage with a visit to one of Aruba's many museums.
We have a culturally rich, diverse population; the artistic payoff is one of the Caribbean's most vibrant art scenes.
Get ready to move to the rhythm of the Caribbean and Aruba!
The Caribbean is a melting pot of cultures, and has given rise to a wide range of artistic expressions. Aruba’s art reflects the influence of the indigenous cultures, European colonialism, and African heritage, and it even continues to evolve today through cultural exchange and innovation. Whether it's the colorful ceramics of the Dominican Republic, the vibrant murals of Jamaica, or the intricate textiles of Guatemala, you’ll find it all in this diverse art scene.
How did art develop in the Caribbean and what does it reflect?Caribbean arts have been shaped by a complex history of colonization, slavery, and cultural exchange. The region's artistic traditions are deeply intertwined with its social and political history, reflecting the struggles and triumphs of its diverse communities. Indigenous art, European colonial art, and African art all played a role in the formation of the Caribbean's artistic identity, as did the arrival of East Indian and Chinese immigrants in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Contemporary Caribbean art is characterized by a rich diversity of styles, themes, and mediums. From vividly colored paintings depicting daily life and cultural traditions to thought-provoking sculptures and installations that address social and political issues, the Caribbean art styles continue to evolve and thrive, reflecting the vibrancy and complexity of the region and its people.
Arts in ArubaAruba's art scene is a thriving part of the island's culture, and visitors increasingly recognise and appreciate its importance. Besides the popular carnival celebrations, local arts and crafts are also gaining importance.
Events such as "Korteweg" and the Aruba Art Fair attract large crowds, and artists from across the Caribbean are eager to showcase their work and share their unique cultural perspectives.
Indeed, the One Happy Island is a destination that offers not only beautiful beaches, but also a rich and diverse cultural experience with music, cuisine and art. Our best tip? Enjoy traditional Aruban music on the streets and in cafés, and dance the night (or day) away at one of the great music festivals. We promise you: it’s well worth your visit.
We’re just getting started with the amazing effects Aruba has to offer. Dig into your trip details below to unlock a Caribbean experience that will fill you with sunshine and send you home with a happy afterglow that never fades.
myAruba planner
Save your favorite places and experiences to a custom itinerary you can manage while you're visiting the island: Start Planning