WILLEMSTAD – The well-known “3 Lil Birds” artwork at Jojo Correa Square in Punda has received a new appearance inspired by “The Blue Wave” as Curaçao celebrates the historic qualification of its national football team for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The colorful installation was created by local artist Omar Sling and has become one of the recognizable artistic landmarks in downtown Willemstad.
According to organizers, the refreshed Blue Wave theme honors Curaçao’s national football team and highlights the importance of recognizing, supporting and developing local talent.
The artwork symbolizes what organizers describe as a strong triangle of love, unity and support within the Curaçao community. Its central message focuses on what unites the people of Curaçao and the importance of continuing to work together for the island’s progress.
The installation consists of a musical trio depicting three traditional “barika hel” drums created from recycled and reused materials. Each figure is equipped with musical instruments, including a guitar, maracas, a kamoana and tambú drums.
The project also carries a sustainability message by showing how materials that may appear ordinary or discarded can be transformed into meaningful works of art.
Besides its artistic value, the installation has become a popular attraction for both tourists and local visitors, many of whom stop to take photographs in Punda. Organizers say the artwork helps promote Curaçao’s culture and identity internationally in an organic and accessible way.
The “barika hel” itself is considered an important cultural symbol tied to Curaçao’s identity, ecosystem and daily life.
According to organizers, the renewed Blue Wave version of the artwork represents joy, unity and hope at a moment of national pride surrounding Curaçao’s first-ever participation in a FIFA World Cup.
The public is being invited to visit and admire the updated artwork in the heart of Punda.