‘Tides of Change’: 17 years of artistic creation in Sint Maarten

Colour is Tes Verheij’s trademark. For nearly twenty years, the beauty of the Friendly Island has inspired her paintings. Originally from the Netherlands, she is now bringing her Caribbean adventure to a close with a retrospective exhibition. Whether using paint, markers or resin, Tes Verheij experiments with a variety of mediums. “I love experimenting, seeking out techniques that have never been used before and making them my own,” says the artist. In 2017, whilst Irma was ravaging the island, Tes picked up her brushes and let her creativity run wild. “After the hurricane had passed, I learnt to work with inks. I then developed a technique that allows me to mix them with epoxy and then create canvases.” Works with vibrant colours and a unique aesthetic. “As they dry, the colours shift, so there’s always a bit of a surprise when you see the final result,” explains the painter. Her favourite subjects? Nature, animals from the Caribbean but also from all over the world. “After Covid, I created paintings featuring funny animals to make people smile,” says Tes with a smile. A socially conscious artist, she also highlights the lack of action on pollution and climate change in some of her paintings. 

Works to see and see again

In artistic residence at the Seaview Beach Hotel in Philipsburg since December 2025, she has also had the opportunity to showcase her talents in some of the hotel’s rooms, drawing inspiration from the vibrant blue of the Caribbean Sea. “Each of my works carries a piece of Sint Maarten,” explains the artist. After founding an art school and teaching for many years on the island, Tes is leaving the place that has inspired her so much. Until 31 May, visitors can admire her work and purchase her pieces at the Seaview Beach Hotel in Philipsburg.