With immense pride and joy, the Department of Culture Aruba (DCA) officially announces the celebration of 20 years of existence of the National Project “Competencia Hubenil Gang di Arte Aruba” (GDA – Aruba Youth Art Gang Competition), an artistic and cultural initiative that has actively contributed to the creative development of our Aruban youth since 2007.
Over the past 20 years, Gang di Arte Aruba has evolved from a simple creative platform for youngsters into a national project with a significant cultural and educational impact. More than one thousand (1,000) youths have participated in the competition, discovering, strengthening, and sharing their talents across different artistic disciplines.
History, Evolution, and Collaboration
The growth and consolidation of Gang di Arte would not have been possible without the important collaboration of various partners and organizations in Aruba. Among them, the Department of Social Affairs (DAS), the Foundation for Community Educational Development (FDEC), Atelier ’89, Mascaruba, and Cas di Cultura Aruba have all contributed significantly to the strengthening and continuity of the project.
Furthermore, Gang di Arte Aruba has managed to establish international connections with similar initiatives, such as “Kunstbende” in the Netherlands and “Luna Yen” in Curaçao, expanding artistic and cultural opportunities for our youth.
Cooperation with the Popcorn Foundation and “Dream, Dare, Do”
An important element in the project’s evolution is the cooperation with the Popcorn Foundation (Fundacion Popcorn). Thanks to this collaboration, Gang di Arte has integrated the core concept of “Dream, Dare, Do”—a philosophy that motivates youths to dream big, have the courage to face challenges, and take action to make their goals a reality. This vision reinforces creativity, perseverance, leadership, and personal growth among the participants.
A Platform for Youth Development
Gang di Arte Aruba is aimed at youths between the ages of 13 and 21, offering them a unique space for artistic expression across various categories, such as:
- Dance: Bodily Expression.
- Theater: Storytelling, Tales, Word Art, Literature.
- Painting: Sculpture, Ceramics, Handicrafts.
- Music: Instrumental Mastery, Musical Composition, Singing, Rap.
- Other options: Creative Sports, Fashion, Film (short film),
More than just a competition, Gang di Arte is a transformative experience that inspires, motivates, and strengthens our future creative generation.
Special 2026 Edition
During a press conference and official presentation held at the Popcorn Studio, located at the Centro di Bario Dakota, the central theme for the 2026 edition, “Humanity meets nature,” was officially introduced. Detailed information was provided regarding:
- Artistic disciplines
- Group formation
- Participation requirements
- Registration procedures
- Workshops and preparatory trajectories
- International exchanges
Additionally, several participants from previous editions shared their inspiring experiences with Gang di Arte Aruba and the impact the project had on their personal and artistic development.
Invitation to the Community and Schools
The Department of Culture Aruba and the Popcorn Foundation invite all secondary schools, CKV (Cultural and Artistic Education) teachers, cultural partners, the media, and the Aruban community to be part of this special celebration and to continue supporting youth creativity and talent. The workshops will take place from July 13 to July 21.
Do you like producing music, fashion, art, emceeing, performing arts, visual arts, theater, poetry, music, or dance, and do you want to meet new people? This is your opportunity to participate, discover, and develop your talents while learning from others.
For registration, more information, and updates, visit the official social media pages of the Department of Culture Aruba, Pop Corn Club Aruba, and Dream, Dare, Do – Aruba. The deadline to register is June 8. The grand finale of Gang di Arte will take place on July 22.
“Gang di Arte is clear proof that when we invest in the creativity and talent of our youth, we are investing in the future of Aruba.
