San Pedrano artist Edwardo “Papo” Alamilla earned national recognition as the grand prize winner of the Belize Tourism Through Art Competition organized by the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) in observance of World Tourism Day, September 27, 2023. His winning painting, Our People, Our Landscapes, Our Tourism, was selected from more than 40 entries submitted by artists across Belize, with 19 works shortlisted for final judging. The competition reflected the 2023 World Tourism Day theme, “Tourism and Green Investments,” encouraging artists to visually interpret sustainable development and environmental stewardship within Belize’s tourism sector.
Alamilla’s composition stood out for its layered narrative and sweeping representation of Belize’s cultural and ecological wealth. The painting brings together marine, jungle, agricultural, and historical elements into a unified national portrait. Central to the work is the depiction of a respected island fisherman, Wilfredo Alamilla Sr., representing sustainable stone crab harvesting—an example of responsible fishing practices that align with the competition’s environmental focus. The artwork also features the Lighthouse Reef Atoll and the iconic Great Blue Hole, along with the Belize Barrier Reef and protective mangrove ecosystems that support biodiversity and coastal resilience.
Beyond the sea, Alamilla integrates Belize’s inland treasures: a Maya archaeological site symbolizing the country’s ancient heritage; the lush rainforest habitat of the jaguar; vibrant scarlet macaws; and Belize’s national bird, the keel-billed toucan. Agricultural life is also honored through imagery of the sugar cane industry and a woman presenting fresh produce—underscoring the connection between land, livelihood, and tourism. Sport fishing imagery referencing the “Grand Slam” of fly fishing further emphasizes Belize’s international appeal to eco-conscious travelers.
Alamilla has stated that he spent several weeks conceptualizing the piece before completing it in just three days once the final sketches were ready. Encouraged by family and community, he approached the canvas with the intention of highlighting Belize’s hardworking people—especially fishermen—and the natural beauty that sustains both culture and economy.
Awarded the $5,000 grand prize at a ceremony in Belize City, Alamilla described the recognition as both humbling and affirming. Painting, he notes, is a family tradition he has practiced since childhood, and his children have continued the artistic legacy. Visitors to San Pedro can view and purchase his work at his studio on Tarpon Street, where he also accepts commissioned pieces. His career reflects the broader creative energy of Ambergris Caye and the important role visual art plays in promoting Belize’s identity as a sustainable and culturally rich tourism destination.
References:
- Belize Tourism Board (BTB) – Belize Tourism Through Art Competition, World Tourism Day 2023.
- Coverage in The San Pedro Sun on the BTB competition and award ceremony.
- United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) – World Tourism Day 2023 theme: “Tourism and Green Investments.”