ARTISA Gallery: San Nicolas' Creative Heart
Discover Aruba's vibrant art scene at ARTISA Gallery in San Nicolas, the Caribbean's Street Art Capital, showcasing murals, workshops & cultural events.
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, ARTISA (short for Art is Aruba) has been instrumental in revitalizing the town, transforming it into a vibrant center for artistic expression. The gallery champions local and international artists, providing a space for exhibitions, workshops, and cultural programming. ARTISA is best known for its role in the Aruba Art Fair, an annual event that draws muralists and creatives from around the globe. These artists have transformed the streets of San Nicolas into an open-air museum, with dozens of large-scale murals adorning the buildings. The murals celebrate Aruban heritage, identity, ecology, and humanity, offering a visual feast for visitors and locals alike. Beyond the murals, ARTISA hosts a variety of events, including Art Fashion shows and community projects. The gallery also offers workshops, fostering local talent and engaging the community in creative activities. Visiting ARTISA provides an immersive experience into Aruba's art scene and the cultural renaissance of San Nicolas. It's a place where art is not just seen but experienced, lived, and shared.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the hottest part of the day.
- Check the schedule for the Aruba Art Fair to catch live painting sessions and artist interactions.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as many murals and artworks are within walking distance.
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 towards the Nicolaas Store building and Kulture Kafe. The gallery is a short walk from there. Many murals and artworks are visible in the surrounding streets.
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Public Transport
From Oranjestad or the high-rise hotel area, take the Arubus bus to San Nicolas. The bus ride takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Once in San Nicolas, ARTISA Gallery is a short walk from the bus terminal. A single trip bus fare is approximately $3 USD.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Aruba. A taxi from Oranjestad to San Nicolas costs approximately $46 USD. From the high-rise hotel area, the fare will be higher. A 5km ride in San Nicolas costs about $23.6 USD. Taxi fares are fixed, but it's always best to confirm the rate with the driver beforehand.
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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 the San Nicolas National Library. Arrive early, especially during peak tourist season, to secure a parking spot.
