Articles
Reveal Padu del Caribe painting
In an informal ceremony at Checkpoint Color, artist Peter van den Heuvel and Vivian Lampe unveiled a commemorative portrait of Padu Del Caribe.
The initiative by the artist, was welcomed by Vivian, Paud’s only daughter, and she provided Peter with a photograph of Padu, from the time he wrote Aruba Dushi Tera, the island’s national anthem. At that time Padu was also a favorite crooner on TV, and on vinyl records, delivering sentimental Boleros in an emotional, personal singing style.
Juan Chabaya (Padu) Lampe, considered the Father of Aruba’s culture, was a unique iconic treasure, born in Aruba, April 26, 1920. He was active, composing, writing, and painting until he passed away, on November 28, 2019.
Padu was a prolific composer, and islanders love his music. But some say he was a painter first. He documented Aruba of yesteryears, in the yesteryears; he knew it would be lost and wanted to leave the memory behind.
This week we commemorate 50 years since Aruba Dushi Tera was adopted as the island’s National Anthem. Coauthored with the late Rufu Wever, Aruba Dushi Tera was popular among Arubans long before it was officially proclaimed the national anthem in 1976. According to Padu, “It somehow inspires patriotic feelings and expresses our boundless love for this beautiful island.”
Peter van den Heuvel is a Dutch-born contemporary artist and an art educator here. He is known for his thought-provoking paintings using mixed media, in an expressionist style in bold colors. His canvases are imbued with symbolism and unexpected narratives.
Peter’s painting of Padu holds tropical elements, he reflects the island’s surrounding sea in Padu’s jacket and frames the image in red/orange flickers symbolizing Padu’s passion for Aruba. The music sheet of Aruba Dushi Tera makes up the background. Padu is depicted in his prime, the way we should remember him.
The reveal, hosted by Checkpoint Color, was friendly and informal. The painting will be donated to a public building on the island. Suggestions are welcome.
This is a link to our favorite:
