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Diaranson, 27 September 2023 AWEMainta LOCAL NEWS 29

Prime Minister Evelyn Wever-Croes:

“I Hope This Artwork Reminds Us of Our Resilience,

Strength, and Love for Our Beloved Aruba”

ON Monday evening, Prime Minister Evelyn Wever-Croes “I hope that this ‘driekiel’ artwork serves as a reminder of
visited the roundabout at Eagle Beach to admire the our resilience, strength, and love that each one of us has for

‘driekiel’ artwork that has been installed as a tribute to the our beloved island,” Prime Minister Wever-Croes concluded.
first inhabitants of the country, Aruba. The Prime Minister This artwork not only adds to the cultural and natural beauty
expressed her excitement at seeing such a large, beautiful, of Aruba but also serves as a symbol of the island’s commit-
and well-executed piece of art that enriches the landscape ment to preserving its unique environment and heritage.

of their island. It is within the view of all citizens and visi-
tors, drawing the attention of many who stop by to admire
and even take photographs.

The ‘driekiel’ represents sea turtles, which are particularly
unique as they come to Aruba to lay their eggs and return
after many years. The little turtles that hatch here also return
to Aruba to lay their eggs, continuing the cycle. The decision

was made to place this artwork near Eagle Beach, a place
where turtles frequently visit to nest.

“I was truly impressed when I witnessed a sea turtle on the

beach in the early morning hours laying her eggs, and even
more impressive is when you have the privilege of seeing
the little turtles hatch. I would like to express my gratitude,
first and foremost, to our local artist, Gilbert Senchi, and his

ARTiosa team, who took on the task of creating an immensely
beautiful work of art for our beloved Aruba,” expressed the
Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister also extended her thanks to the Aruba
Tourism Authority (ATA), UNOCA, and TPEF for their contri-
butions to bring this project to completion, as well as all
others who provided support in one way or another. She also

paid tribute to the late Mr. Alex Nieuwmeyer, who always had
the desire to bring this artwork to Aruba.