More than meets the eye mural

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Description

Tucked into the colorful district of Scharloo Abou in Willemstad, Curaçao, the “More Than Meets the Eye” mural is one of those places that makes you stop mid-step and just stare for a while. It’s not just paint on a wall—at least, that’s what most people realize after a few moments of looking. There’s this layered complexity to it, a kind of coded storytelling that feels both deeply personal and universally human. The mural is part of a growing street art movement that’s transforming Curaçao’s old neighborhoods into open-air galleries, but this one stands out for the way it whispers (and sometimes shouts) about identity, perception, and community pride.

When I first saw it, I remember thinking it looked almost alive. The colors shift with the light, and depending on the time of day, you notice new shapes, faces, and symbols emerging from the background. Local guides often say that’s exactly the point—it’s meant to challenge how we see things, to remind us that what you notice at first glance is rarely the whole story. And honestly, that message hits home whether you’re a traveler, a local, or just someone wandering around looking for a good photo spot.

The mural is painted across a wide wall that seems to breathe with the rhythm of the street. The artist (a local talent who’s become something of a legend in Curaçao’s art scene) used bold strokes and intricate patterns to create a sense of movement. The closer you get, the more details you uncover—tiny motifs that nod to Curaçao’s multicultural roots, its African heritage, and the island’s ongoing dialogue between old and new. It’s one of those rare public artworks that feels both spontaneous and deeply intentional.

What makes it even more compelling is how it connects with its surroundings. The Scharloo Abou district, once a neglected part of town, has been revitalized through art. Walking through the area feels like flipping through a visual diary of the island’s soul. The “More Than Meets the Eye” mural sits right at the heart of that transformation, reminding visitors that beauty often hides in plain sight. It’s not polished or pretentious—it’s raw, honest, and alive with local energy.

If you’re the kind of traveler who loves discovering places that feel authentic and slightly off the beaten path, this mural is worth the detour. It’s not just an Instagram backdrop (though it photographs beautifully); it’s a conversation starter. You’ll likely find yourself chatting with locals who pass by, sharing their own interpretations or stories tied to the artwork. And that’s what makes it special—it brings people together, not because they all see the same thing, but because they don’t.

Key Features

• Large-scale street mural featuring intricate patterns and layered symbolism
• Created by a local Curaçaoan artist celebrated for blending cultural heritage with modern expression
• Part of the Scharloo Abou open-air art district, known for its creative revival
• Offers unique photo opportunities that change with lighting and perspective
• Rich in cultural references to Curaçao’s diverse history and identity
• Accessible on foot and surrounded by other murals, cafés, and small galleries

One of the coolest things about this mural is how it plays with perception. From a distance, it looks like a cohesive image, but as you move closer, you start to see dozens of smaller stories—faces, patterns, and symbols that seem to emerge from nowhere. It’s like a visual puzzle that rewards curiosity. I’ve seen people stand there for twenty minutes just trying to piece it all together. And somehow, everyone walks away with a slightly different interpretation.

Best Time to Visit

In my experience, the best time to visit the “More Than Meets the Eye” mural is early in the morning or late in the afternoon. The tropical sun in Curaçao can be pretty intense around midday, and the softer light during those hours brings out the mural’s depth and texture beautifully. Morning visits also mean fewer crowds, so you can take your time soaking it all in—or snapping that perfect shot without anyone wandering into your frame.

If you visit around sunset, the wall seems to glow with this warm, golden hue that makes the colors pop even more. It’s also a great time to explore the rest of Scharloo Abou, when the streets are calm and the air feels cooler. Some evenings, local musicians set up nearby, adding a spontaneous soundtrack to your visit. It’s one of those moments where art, place, and people all blend together seamlessly.

How to Get There

Reaching the mural is fairly straightforward. It’s located in the Scharloo Abou neighborhood, just a short walk from Willemstad’s historic center. If you’re staying in the Punda or Otrobanda areas, you can easily cross the famous Queen Emma Bridge and stroll through the colorful streets leading up to the district. Along the way, you’ll pass other murals and restored colonial buildings that give you a sense of the area’s creative pulse.

Taxis and local buses also serve the area, and if you’re driving, there’s usually street parking nearby. But honestly, walking is the best way to experience it. The neighborhood is compact and filled with surprises—hidden courtyards, small art studios, and the occasional street vendor selling fresh coconuts or pastechi (a local pastry you absolutely have to try). It’s the kind of place where getting lost a little is part of the fun.

Tips for Visiting

If you’re planning a visit, here are a few tips I’ve picked up over time. First, bring water and sunscreen—Curaçao’s sun doesn’t mess around. Wear comfortable shoes, because you’ll probably end up exploring more than you planned. And take your time. The mural isn’t something you can fully appreciate in a quick glance. Walk around it, step back, look from different angles. You’ll be surprised how much your perspective changes.

Another tip: if you can, join one of the local street art walking tours. The guides are usually artists themselves or people deeply involved in the community, and they share insights you’d never pick up on your own. I once joined a tour where the guide pointed out subtle details in the mural—like how some patterns were inspired by traditional Curaçaoan textiles, or how certain colors symbolized resilience and rebirth. It made me see the whole piece differently.

And of course, be respectful. This is a living neighborhood, not just a tourist stop. People live and work here, and the art is part of their daily environment. Avoid climbing or touching the mural, and if you’re taking photos of locals, always ask first. A friendly smile goes a long way here.

If you’re into photography, experiment with different times of day and angles. The morning light brings out the cool tones, while late afternoon gives everything a warmer glow. And if you’re lucky enough to visit after a light rain, the colors seem to intensify even more—it’s like the wall takes a deep breath and comes alive again.

Lastly, don’t rush off right after seeing it. Grab a coffee from a nearby café, chat with locals, or explore the other murals scattered around the area. Each one tells its own story, but together they paint a picture of Curaçao’s creative spirit—a community reclaiming its spaces through art and imagination. The “More Than Meets the Eye” mural is the centerpiece of that movement, a reminder that beauty often hides behind the ordinary, waiting for someone curious enough to look closer.

So, if you find yourself in Willemstad with a few hours to spare, skip the usual tourist checklist for a bit and wander through Scharloo Abou. Let the colors guide you, follow the sound of laughter and street music, and when you finally stand before that mural, take a deep breath. Look once, then look again. Because as the name says, there’s definitely more here than meets the eye.

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