ColorMeSXM is a project on Sint Maarten by Be The Change Foundation. The project aims to add colour to the island through murals, promote our local art and artists, and encourage residents and visitors to explore and share the beauty of our island. For the first phase of this project, 12 artists were selected to create 12 murals in Philipsburg, Sint Maarten.
ColorMeSXM is supported and made possible by the Government of Sint Maarten; Sint Maarten Tourism Bureau; Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport; The Prins Bernhard Foundation; Sherwin Williams; La Vista and other partners and volunteers. You can keep looking forward each week to reading about the artists behind the ColorMeSXM murals being featured in Philipsburg.
On the Wings of Change by Tim Dowling
Like many of the works we’ve been exploring through the ColorMeSXM series, this work is bold and pops off the wall like a waft of fresh sea breeze. The vibrant yellows and very stark black of the butterflies make for great contrast while splashes of colour explosion add even more dimension and depth to the work. The mural is called “On the Wings of Change”. It was created over the course of three days, and although it took the least amount of time of the other murals in the series so far, it does not fall short in its delivery. The mural is interactive, as it offers a space for the public to stand in between the wings for a chance to create their own moment of soaring.
Of the concept behind the piece as well as its inspiration, the artist, Tim Dowling, said, “A caterpillar needs to metamorphosis, adapt and change to become a butterfly. In the current climate we’re all facing, we all have to change and adapt as well. It is not easy, but like the butterfly, it can be done and the result can be amazing. I wanted to incorporate this idea of ‘change’ into the theme of my mural but also some of the beautiful creatures like the hummingbird, hibiscus flowers and geckos. I could have included so much more, but I had to limit myself.”
When he is not creating beautiful, large-scale mural masterpieces, Tim runs an art school over in St. John’s Estate as well as an art gallery. If you would like to contact him about his work, or just to let him know how much you appreciate his wall, feel free to do so by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or check out his website: arthousesxm.com
Make sure to stop by Tim Dowling’s “On the Wings of Change” while you’re in Philipsburg; or take a special trip just to admire it and take pictures with his work and that of others.
Hear about more of the artists every week, right here in the Out n’ About. Curious to see what art they are creating before it’s done? Follow @colormesxm on Instagram or Be The Change Foundation on Facebook to learn more.
