ARTISA Gallery: San Nicolas' Creative Heart
Explore ARTISA Gallery in San Nicolas: a vibrant hub where art comes to life through murals, workshops, and community engagement.
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 plays a central role in San Nicolas' transformation into a vibrant art district. It is the organizer of the Aruba Art Fair, which brings together international muralists and local artists to create stunning murals throughout the city. These murals celebrate heritage, identity, ecology, and humanity, turning the city into a living museum. ARTISA also hosts Art Fashion events, Christmas Fairs, and projects like Ban Mozaik and Nature and Faces. Every first Friday of the month, the gallery features a new artist, offering a fresh perspective on the Aruban art scene. Visitors can also participate in various workshops upon request and take the famous Aruba Mural Tours, providing insights into the stories behind the art. More than 50 large-scale murals, installations, and public sculptures created by world-renowned artists now define the cityscape of San Nicolas. This open-air gallery invites residents and tourists to see, feel, and think differently. Together, these events generate tourism, foster education, inspire youth, and bring pride back to the people of San Nicolas and beyond.
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.
- Join the Aruba Mural Tour to learn the stories behind the stunning street art in San Nicolas.
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 main street, head east towards the Nicolaas Store building. ARTISA Gallery is a short walk from there. Look for the colorful murals and vibrant atmosphere that characterize the area.
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Public Transport
From Oranjestad, take the Arubus to San Nicolas. The ride takes approximately 40 minutes. Once in San Nicolas, ARTISA Gallery is a short walk from the main bus terminal. **Cost:** A single-trip fare is approximately $2.60 USD.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Aruba. A taxi from Oranjestad to San Nicolas costs around $46 USD. ARTISA Gallery is located on Bernard van de Veen Zeppenfeldstraat 6. **Cost:** A 5km ride in San Nicolas costs about 23.6 USD.
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Parking
Street parking is available in San Nicolas, but be mindful of parking signs to avoid fines. Recommended parking lots include the Arubus parking lot, the Refineria di Aruba (RDA) office area, near San Nicolas Police Station, Santa Theresita Center Square, and San Nicolas National Library. **Cost:** Free, but be aware of parking regulations.
