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Serena's Art Factory: A Celebration of Curaçaoan Culture

Discover the heart of Curaçaoan art at Serena's Art Factory, home of the iconic Chichi® sculptures, where creativity blends with culture and community empowerment on the road to Sint Joris Baai.

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Serena's Art Factory, home of the iconic Chichi® sculptures, offers a vibrant immersion into Curaçaoan culture and artistry. Located on the road to Sint Joris Baai, near the CuraAloe Plantation and the Ostrich Farm, the factory provides a free tour showcasing the creation of these colorful figurines. More than just a souvenir shop, it's a place where visitors can witness local craftsmanship, learn about the Chichi's cultural significance as a symbol of the 'big sister,' and even participate in open-air workshops to paint their own unique Chichi. The factory radiates artistic energy, blending German craftsmanship with Caribbean colors, and empowering local women through creative employment. A visit here is a chance to connect with the island's spirit and take home a meaningful piece of Curaçaoan heritage.

A brief summary to Serena's Art Factory / Chichi® Garden

  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Participate in a Chichi painting workshop for a hands-on cultural experience and a unique souvenir.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby CuraAloe Plantation or the Ostrich Farm for a full day of exploration.
  • Check the Art Factory's schedule for special events or demonstrations.
  • Support local artists by purchasing a Chichi or other handcrafted souvenir directly from the Art Factory.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the factory and gardens.
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Getting There

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From central Willemstad, a taxi or ride-share is the most direct way to reach Serena's Art Factory. The journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Agree on the fare with the driver before starting your trip. A typical fare ranges from 40-60 ANG. Be aware that fares may increase by 25% at night or with more than 4 passengers. Tipping 10% is customary for good service.

  • Public Transport

    While public buses are available in Curaçao, reaching Serena's Art Factory via bus involves multiple transfers and a significant walk. First, take a bus from Willemstad towards Westpunt and ask the driver to drop you off near Sint Joris Baai. From there, it's approximately a 20-30 minute walk to the Art Factory. Bus fares are around 2-3 ANG per ride. Confirm the route and stop with the driver to ensure you are on the correct path. This option is time-consuming and requires some walking, so plan accordingly.

  • Driving

    If driving from Willemstad, head east on the main road towards Sint Joris Baai. The drive is straightforward, taking about 20-30 minutes. Follow the signs for Sint Joris Baai; Serena's Art Factory is located on the road to the bay (Juan Luis 87 a). Limited free parking is available on-site.

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Discover more about Serena's Art Factory / Chichi® Garden

Serena's Art Factory, nestled on the serene eastern side of Curaçao on the road to Sint Joris Baai, is more than just an art gallery; it's a vibrant celebration of Curaçaoan culture, artistry, and community. This unique destination, the birthplace of the iconic Chichi® sculptures, offers visitors an immersive experience that goes beyond simply viewing art. It's a place to witness the creation process, understand the cultural significance of the Chichi, and even unleash your own creativity in a colorful workshop. Founded by German-born artist Serena Israel, the Art Factory has become a symbol of female empowerment and Caribbean artistry. Serena, who arrived in Curaçao in 2001 after sailing around the world, blended her European craftsmanship with the vibrant colors and spirit of the Caribbean to create the Chichi® – a voluptuous female figure representing the 'big sister' in Papiamentu, the local language. The Chichi embodies the strength, warmth, and responsibility of the eldest sister, who plays a vital role in holding families together. Stepping into Serena's Art Factory is like entering a world of color and creativity. The factory and adjoining art shop are located near the CuraAloe Plantation and the Ostrich Farm. Visitors are welcome to take a free tour and witness firsthand how Serena and her team create these amazing souvenirs and sculptures. The air is filled with the sounds of creation, as local craftsmen employ both modern and traditional techniques to produce the Chichi's from various materials like plaster, epoxy, and concrete. The tropical garden surrounding the Art Factory provides a lively setting for open-air workshops. Here, individuals and groups can participate in painting their own Chichi sculptures and souvenirs. With a wide palette of vibrant Caribbean colors at your disposal, you can create a truly unique and personalized piece of art to take home. Serena and her team offer guidance and encouragement, making the workshop a fun and rewarding experience for all ages and skill levels. More than just a tourist attraction, Serena's Art Factory plays a vital role in the local community. Serena employs a team of local craftsmen and over fifty painters, primarily women, providing them with skills, employment, and a platform to express their creativity. Each woman paints the Chichi sculptures in her own colorful style, adding a personal touch to each piece while adhering to specific guidelines to ensure product consistency. This collaborative effort blends German craftsmanship with Caribbean artistry, creating a product that is both beautiful and meaningful. The Chichi® has become an ambassador for Curaçao, representing the island's creativity and spirit to the world. When locals travel abroad, they often take a Chichi as a gift, sharing a piece of their culture with friends and family. The sculptures can be found in various sizes and designs, from small keychains to larger-than-life figures, and are sold not only at the Art Factory but also at various locations throughout Curaçao and Bonaire. Serena's Art Factory also offers professional restoration services for sculptures in plaster and stone, a craft Serena learned in Germany and perfected during her years working for famous art museums in Berlin. Her clients include churches, museums, commercial companies, nonprofit firms, and individuals. A visit to Serena's Art Factory is an opportunity to: * **Witness the creation of the iconic Chichi® sculptures:** See firsthand how these colorful figurines are made, from the initial casting to the final painting. * **Learn about the cultural significance of the Chichi:** Understand the meaning behind this symbol of the 'big sister' and its importance in Curaçaoan culture. * **Unleash your creativity in a painting workshop:** Participate in an open-air workshop and paint your own unique Chichi sculpture. * **Support the local community:** By visiting the Art Factory, you are supporting local craftsmen and women and contributing to the island's economy. * **Take home a meaningful souvenir:** A Chichi sculpture is more than just a souvenir; it's a piece of Curaçaoan heritage that you can cherish for years to come. Serena's Art Factory radiates artistic energy and possesses an atmosphere of inspired multicultural cooperation. Working with a close and committed team, Serena's Chichi® sculptures and other souvenirs blend German craftsmanship with Caribbean colors and art and carry the passion and spirit of all those who help to create them. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a culture seeker, or simply looking for a unique and memorable experience, Serena's Art Factory is a must-visit destination in Curaçao. It's a place where you can connect with the island's spirit, support the local community, and take home a piece of Curaçaoan heritage.

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