American artist André Manzel Henderson presents “The Journey” | English

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American multimedia designer and artist André Manzel Henderson will present his first international exhibition, “The Journey: A Visual Experience of the Transatlantic Forced Migration,” opening June 12th, 2025, at the historic Fort Zoutman in downtown Oranjestad.

This deeply personal and visually arresting exhibition is the culmination of nearly 15 years of artistic and historical exploration. Henderson, who studied African American Studies and has worked as a graphic and clothing designer, began painting after a summer in Atlanta where a friend offered him studio space and a fresh set of canvases and paints. “I called on my creative intuition and ancestors, and something told me: —“Paint something for us. We are the ones who came before you,” Henderson recalls.

What began as an intuitive creative act evolved into a tribute to the millions of Africans lost during the Middle Passage, those who never made it to the shores of the Caribbean or the United States. His series, The Journey, honors them through evocative works—many of which are female figures, symbolizing the origin of life.

The exhibition includes nearly 30 pieces across three powerful series, including The Clotilda—named after the last known slave ship to dock in the United States. Some of the works are painted directly on wood, such as Georgia Pine, referencing the material of the slave ships themselves. Another series presents 8-foot-tall freestanding pieces blending African icons and Christian symbols, capturing the spiritual conflict and resilience of the enslaved.

After scouting numerous locations across the region, Henderson chose Fort Zoutman for its profound resonance with the exhibit’s themes. “The space connects with the story—what the fort represents historically and what it means to the community. I want this exhibition to be accessible and meaningful to the people of Aruba,” Henderson says.

With family roots tracing back to the island of Montserrat, Henderson says standing in front of the ocean in Aruba evokes a deeper spiritual connection. “This island, its size and its people, gives you that feeling of being home.”

The artist and organizers would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the partners and sponsors who made this exhibition possible: Het Cultuurfonds Caribisch Gebied, Unoca, Vibration PR, Basha Foundation, VNO, and the Museo Histórico Aruba – Fort Zoutman. Their commitment to cultural exchange and historical dialogue has been instrumental in bringing The Journey to life on Aruban soil. The exhibition will also feature “The Last Voyage,” a smaller series on canvas inspired by the final slave ship journey to Curaçao. “The Journey” will be on view at Fort Zoutman from June 12th, 2025. The public is invited to experience this moving collection firsthand