Earlier this spring, I had the incredible opportunity to be selected as a guest artist and workshop leader on Saba, a small, spectacular 13-square-kilometre island in the Dutch Caribbean. Coming from the flat, densely populated Netherlands—where bikes reign supreme—I wasn’t sure what to expect. During my project interview, I asked if I could have a bike during my stay. This was met with laughter... and once I arrived, I understood why.
First Impressions
Landing on Saba in a 12-seater prop plane was unlike anything I’d ever experienced. As we descended the view transformed from rugged cliffs to lush rainforest. The plane touched down on the world’s shortest commercial runway, just 400 meters long.
The drive from sea level up to the town of Windwardside, where I was staying, was jaw-dropping. We passed through the village charmingly named “Hell’s Gate” on a road that wound sharply upward, surrounded by vivid greenery and bursts of bright tropical flowers. The terrain was wild, dramatic, and so beautiful.
Over the coming days I would hike, walk, swim, drive through and sit looking out over incredible vistas, while glimpsing wildlife and vegetation that I had never seen before. From the sea to the summit, there was raw beauty in every direction.
Exploring Saba: Hiking, Wildlife, and Solitude
Over the next several days, I hiked the rocky trails, swam in crystal-clear waters, and took in panoramic views. I witnessed plant and animal life I’d never seen before. The island felt like a movie set that had been left untouched—stunning and totally free from commercialization or crowds.
The people of Saba were as genuine as the landscape. Some had deep generational roots; others had more recently made this remote, rugged island their home. Life there had its challenges—especially due to its isolation and limited resources—but the beauty and calm more than made up for them. (Learn more about Saba’s geography and history)
Teaching Creative Workshops with Create & Learn
I was invited to lead workshops through Create & Learn, an initiative founded by the Sea & Learn Foundation. During my time there, I led three workshops:
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One in partnership with Saba Reach, a local organization that supports under-employed adults
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Two workshops open to the public
The first workshop took place at the organization’s headquarters, and was a wonderful success. I loved seeing all the different ideas spring out of a simple collection of tools and materials. Near the end of the workshops, one participant exclaimed, “I didn’t know I could do this!” which was such a great parting note.
The two public workshops were fully booked in advance! I introduced basic jewelry-making materials like wood, sandpaper, glue, and metal findings, shared a few techniques, and let the creativity do the rest. The results were personal, original pieces made by islanders themselves. It was such a joy to see everyone immersed in the creative process.
Reflections
Between teaching sessions, I had ample time to rest, explore, and reflect. This residency was a gift. It gave me:
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Time to explore a new part of the world
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Confidence in leading creative workshops abroad
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The chance to climb a dormant volcano, Mount Scenery, which is known as the highest point in the Kingdom of the Netherlands
I’m so grateful to Lynn, Emily, and the Sea & Learn team, as well as the Cottage Club, who generously hosted me during my stay (★★★★★).
Shoutouts to Island Inspiration
A special thank-you to JoBean, a Saba resident and artist who welcomed me into her glass bead studio, let me try my hand at molten glass, and later that week, gave me an unforgettable tour of the island. She might not read this (too busy living real life!), but I’m so grateful. A shoutout also to Nicole, another wonderful new friend who gave me courage to snorkel with the fish, hike new routes, and even to put lipstick on and stay out past my bedtime.
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