WILLEMSTAD – What began as a simple neighborhood staircase in Seru Papaya has grown into a community landmark where art, reflection, and social connection come together. The transformation of the Seru Papaya Stairs is the result of a grassroots initiative led by Shanny Bitorina, founder of Stichting Dash of Seru Papaya, who set out to give new meaning to the only staircase in the neighborhood.
In 2023, artist Avantia Damberg, together with fellow artist Lena Davidovich, created a colorful tile artwork along the steps. The project actively involved local youth through workshops, while residents contributed ideas and labor, ensuring broad community support and ownership.
The surrounding area was also improved with support from Stichting Uniek Curaçao. An adjacent lot was cleaned and redesigned as Viewing Point Seru Papaya, featuring picnic tables and panoramic views of the area. The site is maintained by local residents and became the starting point for the first Trash Catchers initiatives on Curaçao, aimed at raising environmental awareness through community action.
In 2026, the project took on an additional spiritual dimension with the installation of Psalm 16 on the stairs, displayed in Papiamentu, Dutch, Spanish, and English. With this addition, the staircase was also given the name Prayer Stairs, emphasizing its role as a place for calm, contemplation, and reflection. The idea dates back to the artists’ student years and was later revived in memory of their friend Helge van der Loo, to whom the staircase is dedicated.
To mark this latest phase, a neighborhood gathering will be held on Saturday, January 17, from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Residents and visitors are invited to join for an informal get-together at the stairs. Parking is available at Viewing Point Seru Papaya, which can be found via Google Maps.