Colors of our Nation: Celebrating Aruba through local creativity

 

In March, as Aruba celebrated its Dia di Himno y Bandera (Anthem & Flag Day), Kooyman Aruba launched a special project: Colors of Our Nation. Created to honor 50 years of Aruba’s anthem and flag, the campaign highlighted local creativity, cultural pride, and craftsmanship.

Local artist Paul Wong, with support from Tarrick Ras, transformed a simple idea into a work of art: a series of uniquely designed Adirondack chairs inspired by the colors of Aruba’s flag.

The journey began with Paul’s initial sketch, followed by a visit to Kooyman to select materials and use the color scanning service to match the vibrant hues of the Aruba flag. Every brushstroke reflected the island’s identity, and from mixing the perfect colors to painting the chairs, each step showcased dedication, local craftsmanship, and quality materials.

 

On March 18, coinciding with the main celebrations of Dia di Himno y Bandera, the completed Adirondack chairs were unveiled in the campaign’s main video. Each chair captured the spirit of the flag, the culture, and the pride of Aruba, serving as both a visual and emotional centerpiece for the project.

After being showcased at Kooyman, the chairs have been donated to MFA Aruba (Multi-Functional Accommodations Aruba), an organization that brings together a wide range of governmental and non-governmental services under one roof.

They will be placed at the MFA location in Paradera, which is also home to “One of a Kind Café”, Aruba’s first inclusive café by Trampolin pa Trabao. A welcoming space where visitors can enjoy coffee, lunch, and delicious desserts.

 

Open Monday through Friday from 08:00–12:00 and 13:00–15:00, MFA Paradera now provides the setting where the chairs remain accessible to the public.

Beyond Paradera, the chairs will also be shared across other MFA locations.

Through this donation, the project leaves a lasting legacy for the community, continuing to celebrate Aruba’s culture and creativity.