Etnia Nativa Gallery

ORANJESTAD—On July 28, 2025, Prime Minister Mr. Mike Eman paid a courtesy visit to Etnia Nativa, a gallery and museum dedicated to Aruban Native art.

The gallery, situated in the owner's home, is a cultural treasure in Westpunt, Noord, where visitors can appreciate art that reflects the roots and foundation of our people across generations.

Owner Anthony Croes and his wife take care of and manage the museum with great dedication. They have opened their doors to the public to expose our history, culture, biodiversity, and native plantations, which can become sustainable if treated with love and affection.

In Etnia Nativa, visitors can admire works of art created by Mr. Anthony Croes himself, inspired by Aruba's archaeological history and the cultural identity of our community. The art reflects the strong character of our ancestors who managed to face difficult moments in our history.

Art can be found in every corner of the gallery, including stones used for grinding corn and containers for storing water. The creativity and resistance of our people are evident in every detail.

Prime Minister Eman expressed that the visit was an inspiration, given his current responsibility as Minister of Culture and Nature. Etnia Nativa exemplifies the fusion of history, culture, and nature.

Mr. Anthony Croes, with his passion for nature and Aruban identity, began scouting at an early age. Here was born the inspiration to defend and cultivate nature and to help the weakest, a principle that Mr. Croes followed in all phases of his life.

Mr. Croes shared the brief history of the land in Westpunt, where his gallery is located. Initially, an empty area overlooking the sea, it is now part of a residential area. The house itself is built eighty percent with recycled materials, in harmony with nature.