WILLEMSTAD - The painting of a so-called Chichi in Curaçao by King Willem-Alexander, Queen Máxima and Princess Amalia was canceled at the last minute on Thursday afternoon. The Royals did visit such an image and spoke to the maker, artist Serena Israel. But the painting that was to follow was canceled.
In Curaçao, there has been a slight commotion about the program component in recent days. Gallery owner Lusette Verboom sees a caricature of a black woman in the Chichi. "Sitting invitingly with her legs spread wide, showing her breasts prominently, ready to conquer the world."
Therefore, according to her, the activity would not be appropriate. “At a time when we are processing our slavery past, where we are engaged in a search for equality, for self-respect of the black population in this society, it does not seem to me to show dignity we see the royal party painting the caricature of a black woman."
The artist disagrees. “I stand for color,” she says. When asked, the Dutch Government Information Service says that the government of Curaçao determines the program of the royal visit and therefore also deals with changes.
Instead of the royals painting, governor Lucille George-Wout took the floor. She stated in the presence of the king, queen and princess that 'the appearance of the Chichi is often spoken of, but it is about the inner value'.
The eldest daughter in a family is often called Chichi in Curaçao. George-Wout praised her 'connecting role': "It is a pillar within the family that is important."