ARTISA Gallery: San Nicolas' Creative Heart
Explore vibrant murals and contemporary art at ARTISA Gallery, the heart of San Nicolas' thriving art scene and cultural transformation.
ARTISA Gallery, located in the heart of San Nicolas, Aruba, is more than just an art gallery; it's a dynamic social gallery and multidisciplinary art platform. Founded by Tito Bolivar, a visionary cultural producer, ARTISA (short for Art is Aruba) uses visual arts, fashion, performance, and public installations to empower artists and engage communities. The gallery is a driving force behind San Nicolas' transformation into the 'Street Art Capital of the Caribbean'. ARTISA organizes the Aruba Art Fair, which brings together international muralists, local artists, and global creatives to create a living museum of vibrant murals throughout the city. These murals celebrate heritage, identity, ecology, and humanity, turning the city's streets into an open-air gallery. ARTISA hosts monthly exhibitions featuring new artists, workshops, and the famous Aruba Mural Tours. The gallery aims to champion artistic expression and innovation, providing artists with the freedom and space to explore bold concepts. It also builds bridges between artists, residents, schools, and organizations, making art accessible to everyone. Visitors can explore the gallery and learn about the stories behind the murals and the artists who created them. ARTISA is not just a place to see art but to experience, live, and share it.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the hottest part of the day.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as many murals and artworks are within walking distance.
- Check the schedule for the Aruba Art Fair to catch live painting sessions and other events.
- Combine your visit with a tour of the San Nicolas street art scene for a deeper understanding of the murals.
A brief summary to ARTISA Gallery
- Bernard van de Veen Zeppenfeldstraat 6, San Nicolas, AW
- +2975934475
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
- Thursday 9 am-6 pm
- Friday 9 am-6 pm
- Saturday 9 am-6 pm
Getting There
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Walking
ARTISA Gallery is located on Bernard van de Veen Zeppenfeldstraat 6 in San Nicolas. From the Arubus Mainstation San Nicolas, walk west on Zeppenfeldstraat. The gallery will be on your left. The walk is approximately 5 minutes. Be mindful of the sun and wear comfortable shoes.
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Public Transport
Arubus, the public bus company, has a main station in San Nicolas. From Oranjestad or the high-rise hotel area, take the Arubus to the San Nicolas Main Station. From there, ARTISA Gallery is a short 5-minute walk west on Zeppenfeldstraat. A single-trip fare is approximately $2.60 USD.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in San Nicolas. From anywhere in San Nicolas, a taxi to ARTISA Gallery will be a short ride. From Oranjestad, a taxi ride will cost approximately $46 USD. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your trip. A 5km ride in San Nicolas costs about 23.6 USD.
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Driving
From Oranjestad, follow Route 1A (also known as Seroe Colorado Road and Seroe Blanco) south towards San Nicolas. Continue past the roundabout to San Nicolas town center. ARTISA Gallery is located on Bernard van de Veen Zeppenfeldstraat 6. Street parking is available, but be mindful of parking signs to avoid fines. Recommended parking lots include the Arubus parking lot, the Refineria di Aruba (RDA) office, near San Nicolas Police Station, Santa Theresita Center Square, and San Nicolas National Library.
