Best Street Art in SINT MAARTEN

You will find tons of street art in Sint Maarten, and what all the local artists have contributed to the ColorMeSXM project is absolutely remarkable. Therefore, you shouldn’t miss out on a self-guided tour with the help of this comprehensive post.

Sint Maarten

Nestled in the big wet heart of the Caribbean, Sint Maarten is the Dutch half of a unique dual-nation island. Known for its white-sand beaches and tropically laid-back atmosphere, this southern part of the island pulses with life and color.

In 1493, Christopher Columbus is said to have discovered the island on his second voyage without even landing there. Since Columbus’s description of the isle made it seem worthless to Spain, it remained virtually untouched for another century.

After some back-and-forth between the Dutch and the French, in 1648, these colonial powers signed the so-called Treaty of Concordia. They divided the island into two parts that have coexisted peacefully ever since. However, due to their respective hegemonies, they not only differ in customs, language, and cuisine. They also have very different political statuses, which affect many aspects of life.

Generally speaking, the Dutch side is the island’s bustling hub. Its capital, Philipsburg, is famous for shopping, partying, and picturesque buildings. In addition, the urban art project ColorMeSXM transformed parts of Philipsburg into an inspiring open air gallery.

ColorMeSXM

ColorMeSXM is a public art project that showcases Philipsburg’s community spirit and creativity in vibrant color. Launched in 2019 by the non-profit Be The Change Foundation, the initiative aims to rejuvenate the capital through large-scale murals by local and regional artists. What began as a modest attempt to brighten the city has flourished into a defining symbol of Sint Maarten’s artistic identity and cultural pride. The idea was simple but powerful: to use art to tell stories about various aspects of the island.

Since its inception, more than twenty murals have been completed throughout Philipsburg. Each piece adds a touch of color and inspiration to the cityscape. Some works are purely artistic, while others convey strong cultural or social messages.

Nevertheless, as with all street art, there are ongoing challenges – from weather damage to disrespectful handling of the works. But ColorMeSXM continues to show that art can be both a celebration and a catalyst.

To discover the works on a self-guided tour, you can find a map online – or use the map I created at the end of this post which is more complete. Obviously, I have also compiled information about the artists involved and listed their Instagram accounts at the end of the post for further information.

The Artists

The artists who have participated in the ColorMeSXM project represent a vibrant cross-section of Sint Maarten’s creative community. They are painters, illustrators, designers, educators, and community artists. Many of them were born and raised on the island, others joined from the wider Caribbean region or other parts of the world. Together, they reflect the island’s diversity and its dynamic blend of local and global influences.

The selection process has been largely community-based and curated by the non-profit Be The Change Foundation. Occasionally, the foundation has sought public input on mural themes. For example, they asked residents to nominate community figures or ideas that should be celebrated. Then, they commissioned an artist whose style and message fit the concept.

Below you will find a list of the creators of the colorful works of art in alphabetical order. You can see where the works can be found on the map at the end of the post.

Claudio Arnell

Claudio Arnell is a visual artist known for culturally resonant works.
Arnell’s artistic approach is characterized by bold lines, dynamic compositions and a deep connection to his Caribbean heritage. His work often explores themes of identity, community and the natural environment and reflects the rich culture of Sint Maarten.

His two-part mural A Fisherman’s Tale, which he contributed in 2022 as part of the second phase of the ColorMeSXM initiative, celebrates the traditional fishing history and culture of Sint Maarten.

The second part of the artwork was unfortunately lost behind a newly built wall. That’s just how it is with street art.

Loudahlia Brill

Local artist Loudahlia Brill contributed a mural titled Cultural Liberation to the inaugural phase of the ColorMeSXM project. This made it one of the first works to be unveiled.

Brill’s mural across from the historic Methodist Church in Philipsburg took three weeks to complete. It celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Sint Maarten as it features the national flamboyant tree and the island’s various communities. Drummers accompany the Ponum dance, a traditional celebration of emancipation. According to Brill there simply isn’t a Caribbean without music and dance.

A swing integrated into the painting allows viewers to become one with the work.

Brill had created several murals for local schools and community centers prior to participating in ColorMeSXM. Cultural Liberation was her 15th mural and her first major public mural.

Elena Bryan

Elena Bryan is an important member of Philipsburg’s art scene. She participated in the All You Need Is Art project, which transformed storefronts along the capital’s Front Street into small, temporary galleries.

The project invited local artists to display their work in the storefronts, turning the high street into an open-air exhibition space.

The goal was to support artists and attract visitors following the economic downturn caused by Hurricane Irma and the COVID-19 pandemic.

While detailed biographical information about Bryan is scarce, her participation in this initiative proves that she is part of a network of local artists dedicated to revitalizing Philipsburg’s cultural life.

Loic Bryán

In Sint Maarten, Loic Bryán is more than just a street artist. He is a visual storyteller, a cultural advocate, and a creative force. He uses his talent to brighten streets, raise awareness, and bring people together.

In his work, he combines vibrant color, local identity, and socially conscious themes.

Bryán’s contribution to ColorMeSXM is his mural titled Happiness. With this painting, he celebrates the island’s flora and fauna, obviously.

Beyond murals, Bryán applies his creativity to community-oriented projects. For instance did he design a reusable shopping bag for the Plastic Free SXM initiative. Hence, his work is not only aesthetically pleasing but also purposeful, encouraging people to engage with important social and ecological issues.

Bryán’s activities extend into commissioned design work and publications. He contributed designs to the Sint Maarten National Recovery and Resilience Plan, as well as digital artwork for cultural publications celebrating the island’s rich traditions. Across all his projects remains a commitment to celebrating local identity, fostering community, and inspiring joy through art.

Cindy Choisy aka Cinlab

Cindy Choisy aka Cinlab is a prominent street artist who contributed significantly to the ColorMeSXM mural project in Philipsburg. Her work features vibrant, culturally responsive designs that reflect the island’s heritage and community spirit.

As a professional artist, Cinlab has been actively involved in public art initiatives aimed at beautifying urban spaces and promoting community engagement. Her participation in ColorMeSXM highlights her commitment to using art as a means of expression and connection within her community.

Cinlab’s murals often incorporate elements of local culture, creating pieces that resonate with both residents and visitors.

Tim Dowling

Tim Dowling is a multidisciplinary artist known for his work in animation, illustration, and street art. With over 15 years of experience, he has become a prominent figure in the island’s creative community. He runs an art school and a gallery. This way, he also supports up-and-coming local artists.

Dowling participated in the ColorMeSXM project with his mural On the Wings of Change. It was one of the first works that contributed to the overall concept of the initiative. Painted over three days in the heart of Philipsburg, the mural features large, vibrant butterfly wings complemented by local flora and fauna. Its design invites viewers to symbolically become part of the work of art between the wings.

Dowling’s art clearly underlines ColorMeSXM’s mission to combine aesthetic beauty with cultural storytelling and social community in public spaces.

Zillah Duzon-Hazel

Zillah Duzon-Hazel is a multifaceted artist and pattern designer. She is celebrated for her vivacious and expressive work, which captures the spirit of the Caribbean. Her artistic journey spans fashion design as well as murals. She is also the founder of Jolie Duzon, a fashion brand that blends European cuts with bright, hand-painted prints. This line of fashion clearly reflects her love of color and Caribbean heritage. Her designs have been featured internationally, including at New York Fashion Week. Also, they have been worn by prominent figures such as the Prime Minister of Sint Maarten and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands during her visit to the island.

Beyond her personal artistic work, Zillah Duzon-Hazel is deeply committed to community involvement. She engages family members and local volunteers in her painting projects to make her art a communal experience. These contributions have earned her great recognition: in 2024, she was named a Cultural Icon by the St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association!

Duzon-Hazel participated in the ColorMeSXM project with her painting Caribbean Through My Eyes. It transforms an urban wall into a celebration of nature, culture, and creativity.

Fiel Efenio

Fiel Efenio is a multidisciplinary artist from the Philippines who has had a significant impact on the Sint Maarten art scene through his participation in the ColorMeSXM mural project.

Although he was not born on the island, Efenio has made Sint Maarten his home. Appropriately, the mural he contributes to ColorMeSXM is called I Left My Heart in Sint Maarten.

Professionally, Efenio is a graphic designer, videographer, photographer and editor. I Left My Heart in Sint Maarten marks his first foray into large-scale mural painting.

The work is characterized by bold shapes and bright colors and reflects the diversity of the island and Efenio’s view of his new home. Efenio completed the mural in just three days with the support of family and friends.

Adam Garlicki aka Adam G

Adam Garlicki aka Adam G is a street artist who contributed a mural titled The Coral Queen to the ColorMeSXM project. The work depicts a mermaid surrounded by coral, reflecting the island’s rich marine life. During the royal visit in 2023, none other than Princess Amalia of the Netherlands assisted Adam G in putting the finishing touches to this mural!

However, as you can see in the picture above, The Coral Queen is not Adam G’s only contribution to Philipsburg’s beauty.

Mervin Hous

Mervin Hous is a local artist who is active in the Philipsburg art scene. He has been associated with local galleries or group exhibitions.

As a muralist, he decorated the façade of Philipsburg’s Community and Culture Centre.

Magueda Jackson

Magueda Jackson is a multifaceted artist whose activities span painting, poetry, and community engagement. Born and raised on the island, Jackson discovered her passion for art at an early age. Also, her parents encouraged young Magueda to explore her creative side. She honed her skills at the St. Maarten Academy High School. Later, she expanded her artistic voice through poetry. Her lyrical work is featured in the contemporary collection Where I See The Sun.

As part of the ColorMeSXM project, Jackson created a mural titled I am loved, I am strong. This vibrant work consists of hundreds of painted hearts.

Beyond ColorMeSXM, Jackson’s art has been showcased in prominent exhibitions, including a 2022 display at the House of Parliament in Sint Maarten.

Nascha Kagie

Nascha Kagie is a multidisciplinary artist who has made significant contributions to the ColorMeSXM project. Her work often blends cultural themes with interactive elements.

One of her notable contributions is a mural that celebrates the island’s unique history, culture, and people, encapsulating the essence of Sint Maarten’s identity. Kagie claims that everybody is unique, yet, together they all make up Sint Maarten.

In addition to her individual work, Kagie also collaborated with artist Daphne Prevoo on a mural in partnership with Plastic Free SXM. This project aims to raise awareness about marine life and environmental sustainability.

Apart from her artistic work, Kagie also runs a tour company called Seagrapes which offers immersive experiences that connect participants with the island’s rich heritage and natural beauty.

Nica Labelle

Nica Labelle, whose real name is Bernica Michel, was born in Haiti but grew up in Sint Maarten. She is active in the local art scene as an illustrator, muralist, and musician.

She has been involved with art since childhood. Consequently, she completed a degree in Advertising & Marketing Communications in the USA. Now she applies what she learned in her art and music projects. According to her own statements, an important goal of her work is to inspire her community and strengthen cultural awareness.

Jessica Murtha Van Dyck

Jessica Murtha Van Dyck is a Sint Maarten-based street artist known for her animated murals. She participated in the ColorMeSXM project with the mural Octopus Joy. Nomen est omen, it shows a happy octopus with the message that everything will be fine. This piece reflects her positive, uplifting approach to art.

Murtha’s contribution to ColorMeSXM highlights the project’s goal of promoting local artists and encouraging residents and visitors to explore and share the island’s beauty through art.

Penka Petkova

Penka Petkova is a visual artist originally from Bulgaria. She graduated from the National Academy of Arts in the Bulgarian capital Sofia in 2004 with a master’s degree in ceramics.

Since 2002, Petkova has lived and worked in Sint Maarten, where she has established herself as an accomplished portrait, landscape, and still life artist. Her work is characterized by an impressionistic style.

In addition to her own art, Petkova has been involved in various cultural projects on Sint Maarten. In particular, she contributed illustrations to the animated video storybook Storm. The film, based on the children’s book by Loekie Morales, tells the story of two boys who experience Hurricane Irma on Sint Maarten.

Next to Petkova’s stelae, a circular bench designed by Rosie Field encloses a tree. Field’s mosaic depicts colorful illustrations of native plants and animals.

Daphne Prevoo

Daphne Prevoo is a Sint Maarten-based artist and educator who has contributed significantly to the ColorMeSXM project. She uses art as a tool for education and social engagement, combining creativity with social consciousness.

In collaboration with fellow artist Nascha Kagie, Prevoo co-created a mural that showcases the beauty and fragility of sea life. The artists created a virtual underwater alleyway supplemented by information boards about local ecosystems. The project was a joint effort with Plastic Free SXM and the St. Maarten Development Fund.

In addition to her murals, Prevoo is involved in community-sponsored art projects. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, she created a mixed media piece titled Covid Art Project that served as a personal diary and reflected her family’s experiences during this time.

The cover of this post shows another amazing mural by Daphne Prevoo.

Jimmy Sabas aka MASH

Jimmy Sabas aka MASH is a well-known street artist whose effervescent murals have contributed significantly to the cultural landscape of Sint Maarten. Sabas was born in Guadeloupe in 1989 and began his artistic path in 2011. He initially dabbled in graffiti before completing formal fine arts studies in Martinique in 2012. Since then, his artistic activities have spanned various Caribbean islands such as Guadeloupe, Martinique, St. Barthélemy, and Sint Maarten.

Sabas is known for his complex circular designs, which often reference Caribbean heritage and reflect his personal experiences.

Sabas’s involvement in the ColorMeSXM project underlines his commitment to revitalizing public spaces through art. His murals serve both as artistic expression and as cultural commentary. Through his participation in ColorMeSXM, Sabas continues to inspire and connect communities and use his art as a medium for dialogue and cultural exchange.

I introduced Jimmy Sabas already in my post Best Street Art in Guadeloupe.

Jimmy Sheik

Although Jimmy Sheik did not participate in ColorMeSXM’s first edition, today you can hardly walk down a street on the island and not spot one of his powerful portraits.

Jimmy Sheik was born Jimmy Sheikboudhou in Guadeloupe. He is known for his vibrant public art on Sint Maarten and, above all, on the French side of Saint-Martin.

His murals feature portraits of more or less well-known locals, as well as Caribbean motifs such as birds, reptiles, flowers, and other subjects, thus illustrating local life and traditions.

Sheik is also the founder of the We Love Sint Maarten / Saint-Martin art project. The aim is to convey love, pride, and positive messages about the island through large murals and installations, while simultaneously beautifying public spaces.

The overarching message We Love… is complemented by the name of the island or a specific location, for instance, as We Love Marigot.

Especially on the French side of the island, you’ll discover Sheik’s artwork everywhere. Unfortunately, it’s not just in the more populated areas. It often pops up here and there along the road. A street art hunt for his work is therefore a journey of discovery, requiring you to keep your eyes peeled rather than simply strolling systematically from one piece to the next. I was often a little sad that I couldn’t take photos of the amazing murals I saw from the bus in remote locations.

However, I introduced Jimmy Sheik already in my post Best Street Art in Guadeloupe.

Christford Shillingford

Christford Shillingford is a painter and tattoo artist. He took part in the ColorMeSXM project with a portrait of the bearded anole, a reptile species unique to Sint Maarten. This choice of subject highlights Shillingford’s commitment to showcasing the unique local wildlife.

As a professional tattoo artist, Shillingford brings a unique perspective to his mural work. His artistic career also includes the creation of a coloring book for children with carnival icons for the 50th anniversary of the carnival on Sint Maarten. This project aimed to familiarize children and young people with their Carnival cultural heritage through art.

Neha Soneji

Neha Soneji is a visual artist who contributed the mural titled Drip Wall to the ColorMeSXM project. She was able to complete this vibrant piece within two weeks with the assistance of several volunteers.

Soneji describes the mural as a statement piece meant to inspire the community by adding a splash of color to this rather dull side street. The artwork showcases the island’s diversity. Just like the island itself, it depicts a melting pot of history, culture, and ethnicities. It is as a tribute to the coexistence of the many different types of people that shape Sint Maarten as a multicultural island.

Soneji drew and painted from a young age and only recently discovered watercolor art. She also works in digital art and photography.

Bisera Tsvetkova

Bisera Tsvetkova is a Bulgarian-born street artist. The mural she contributed to the ColorMeSXM project reflects her first impressions of the island after moving from Bulgaria.

As a result, Tsvetkova’s mural represents the essence of Sint Maarten and features elements that are in harmony with the island’s nature and culture.

Sander van Beusekom

Sander van Beusekom studied at the Junior Academy for Art Direction in Amsterdam. Today, he is a co-owner of a graphic design agency in Willemstad, the capital of Curaçao.

In 2019, Curaçao Tourist Board commissioned Sander to create a mural promoting the island in Miami’s street art district Wynwood. He also designed large murals for the Corendon Mangrove Beach Resort as well as a mural on three walls of Willemstad’s tourist office building. For Curaçao’s post office CPost, he created a series of stamps in 2020.

Sander van Beusekom was one of the founders of the urban art project Street Art Skalo, an assignment whose mission was to refurbish the Scharloo district in Punda and to promote local artists. Obviously, he also created several large murals for the Kaya Kaya Festival in Otrobanda.

Annemiek van Kerkhoff-Posthuma

Annemiek van Kerkhof-Posthuma is a Dutch-born artist whose work has significantly contributed to the public art landscape of Sint Maarten, particularly through the ColorMeSXM project. Her mural, titled Freedom Run commemorates a pivotal event in the island’s less glorious colonial past. Van Kerkhof-Posthuma aimed to capture the profound emotions of escape and liberation in her artwork.

Drawing inspiration from French Impressionism, her travels in Spain and Brazil, and her experiences in Sint Maarten, van Kerkhof-Posthuma employs bold colors to convey both light and shadow in her work.

Beyond murals, van Kerkhof-Posthuma’s artistic endeavors include ceramics, sculptures, drawings, and paintings. Her works have been showcased in exhibitions across the Netherlands, the United States, and the Dutch Caribbean. From 1986 to 2008, she served as an art teacher at various schools. Additionally, she has worked as an illustrator, editor, and designer, contributing to various projects and publications.

Annabelle Verheij

Annabelle Verheij is a young street artist who gained recognition with her spirited mural SXM Strong as part of the ColorMeSXM project. At just 16 years old, she was the youngest artist selected for this initiative!

Annabelle’s mural depicts a megaphone and the words SXM Strong, symbolizing the strength and resilience of the Sint Maarten community.

In addition to her mural, Annabelle also collaborated with her mother, Tes Verheij, on another mural as part of the ColorMeSXM project. Together, they painted aspects of Sint Maarten that are close to their hearts.

Tes Verheij

Tes Verheij is a versatile and established artist in Sint Maarten. She is known for her masterful use of color and her innovative techniques. Her artistic practice encompasses a wide range of media, including acrylics, sand painting, glass painting, mosaics, and linocuts. This diverse skill set lends her work a unique and vibrant quality.

In addition to her own artistic projects, Tes Verheij collaborates with her daughter, Annabelle, to create impressive artworks that showcase their shared vision and creativity.

Alongside her work as a muralist, Tes Verheij runs the Art Craft Café Gallery in Philipsburg, where she presents her extensive portfolio and offers a variety of artworks for sale.

On Instagram

To dig deeper into the subject and see more of the amazing art the above-featured artists have created, you can just check out their Instagram accounts. If artist are introduced in this post but not listet below it’s because either they don’t have an account or an account cannot be attributed to them.

Map

The best way of exploring Philipsburg’s Street Art Quarter is by walking, obviously.
This map should help you find the murals I’m introducing in my post.
Clicking on the slider symbol at the top left or the full-screen icon at the top right will display the whole map, including the legend.

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