A trajectory that highlights the powerful union between photography, history, and community in Aruba. The well-known photographic and cultural project “Lens di mi Wowonan” has reached its 18th anniversary, an important milestone that reaffirms its value as a crucial meeting point for photographers, journalists, and the general community.
For two long decades, this platform has served as a vehicle to share the deepest stories told through the lens. This edition brings together art, identity, and the living testimony of our country, giving space to those who document the constant and historical life of our island.
During the official press conference, RBC Royal Bank Director Pierre Rafini shared his gratitude and pride for this journey. He underlined the banking entity’s constant commitment to this wonderful initiative.
“It is an honor for us at RBC to contribute to celebrating 18 years of ‘Lens di mi Wowonan’. For 18 years, this exhibition has brought together photographers, journalists, and the general community to celebrate stories told through the lens. And during each of those 18 years, RBC Royal Bank Aruba NV has felt proud to accompany this initiative as its main sponsor.”
Rafini remarked that this collaboration reflects a deep commitment to art, culture, and the people who dedicate their lives to documenting Aruba’s reality.
This year, the exhibition is dedicated to the Department of Culture Aruba (DCA) on the occasion of its 48th anniversary. This recognition fills the celebration with an even deeper meaning, considering the DCA’s long trajectory.
For nearly five decades, the DCA has worked tirelessly to preserve, document, and promote our cultural heritage. This work gives extra historical weight to this year’s edition, a time when Aruba also commemorates:
• 70 years of our National Coat of Arms.
• 50 years of our Anthem and Flag.
• 40 years of our Status Aparte.
Therefore, this edition is in many ways a tribute to identity itself, to who we are, and to the institutions and symbols that unite us as a single people.
In his message, RBC’s director emphasized the common goal the bank shares with its clients and the Aruban community at large: “At RBC, our purpose is to help our clients thrive, grow, and our communities prosper. A community prospers when its culture is seen, appreciated, and preserved.”
The celebration of the 18th anniversary of “Lens di mi Wowonan” demonstrates that when the private sector, government bodies, and artists join forces, the history of our country stays alive for the generations of today and tomorrow.