Day 50: Julian Castillo

Today, I explored the historic streets of Willemstad. The city was alive with color and bustling with life. The Dutch colonial buildings were illuminated by the warm sun, displaying hues of orange, blue, and pink. While wandering through the streets with my sketchbook, I was drawn to the Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge, a marvel in its own right. It was there that I met Julian Castillo, a local artist whose work captures the essence of Curaçao's spirit. Julian has a keen eye for detail and a love for the island. He shared stories about Willemstad's history and culture that are not found in tourist guides. We exchanged ideas about color, composition, and the emotions that the city evokes in us as artists. Julian's passion for art resonated with mine. I spent the afternoon sketching the bridge and the surrounding area, trying to capture the lively atmosphere and the fluidity of the water below, inspired by Julian's connection to his home. Today was not only about exploring a new location. It was about discovering the soul of Willemstad through its art and the people who create it. Julian's story and artistic vision left an indelible mark on my journey, reminding me that art is not just seen but felt.