WILLEMSTAD – The Slavery Memorial Committee on Sunday, December 21, unveiled the second phase of the mural Tula den kada un di nos in Otrobanda. Created by Curaçaoan artist Garrick Marchena, the expanded artwork now features thirteen Curaçaoan figures recognized for their lasting contributions to the island’s development and emancipation.
The first phase of the mural prominently depicted Tula in white, mounted on a horse as a symbol of resistance, dignity, and unbreakable strength. In the newly revealed phase, the focus broadens to include thirteen individuals who, according to the organizers, embody the same spirit of courage and social commitment that Tula represents.
The figures honored are Manuel Carlos Piar, Philippus Brion, Felix Chacutu, Medardo de Marchena, Dr. Moises Frumencio da Costa Gomez, Angela Altagracia de Lannoy-Willems, Carmen Cecilia Nieuw-Zielinski, Tirso Sprockel, Pierre Lauffer, Elis Juliana, Amador Nita, Wilson Godett, and Adele Rigaud. Each played a distinct role in Curaçao’s political, cultural, educational, or social advancement.
“These thirteen heroes helped shape Curaçao,” said Lucia Beck, director for the Caribbean part of the Kingdom at the Slavery Memorial Committee. “Through their ideas, struggles, care, and creativity, they laid the foundation of who we are today as a community.”
The unveiling formed part of the Kurashi Year End Celebration organized by the Slavery Memorial Committee. The mural was one of three stops during a guided walk through Otrobanda, highlighting Curaçao’s history of resistance, culture, and collective healing.
Participants also visited the birthplace of educator Nilda Pinto, where a performer brought her story to life through a Kompa Nanzi tale, and stopped at the mural of Kemuël Sandries beneath the viaduct, where tambú was discussed as a form of resistance and communal healing.
The evening concluded at Riffort with a traditional year-end celebration featuring aguinaldo, gaita, and tambú music, bringing together history, art, and living culture in a shared moment of reflection and unity.