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Carsten Cilissen (white shirt) with a few of the bikini contest girls and a tattoo client
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he first Caribbean Tattoo Convention took place in Breezes Hotel in Curaçao on October 1 and 2. It was organized by Byron’s Tattoo from Curaçao and the participants came from Italy, Holland, the US, Venezuela, St. Martin, Aruba, Curaçao and Bonaire. Carsten Cilissen from Bushi Tattoo, Bonaire, says, “It was a meeting for all tattoo artists to get to know each other better and to introduce the public to the world of tattoos. Every professional had his own stand - his portfolio, photos and sketches and his ink and needles, chairs and light, the complete tattoo shop - and hygiene was the number one issue! The whole ambiance was like one big party.The tattoo artists were working, bands were performing live music, there was food and drinks and a bikini contest, an airbrush show, body painting, DJs came to play, there were biker’s shows… You know, it was so busy, but with all kinds of people - lovely families with children, tough guys and everybody in between - but it was so well organized that there were no problems whatsoever and everyone was having a super time! The marines who had participated in the waterfront show in Kralendijk came to my stand, they asked me if I spoke Dutch and I said, ‘Yes Sir! And bam! The whole Marine Corps had themselves tattooed at my shop! The contests for the best tattoos took place during the whole weekend.There were several categories like freshly put tattoos, healed tattoos, best color tattoo, best portrait tattoo, best tribals, best black and white shade work. The jury consisted of guest tattoo artists, journalists from tattoo magazines, photographers and film makers. I won three prizes: all three for my black and white shade work – great feeling! But you know what? The best feeling was the brotherhood I felt amongst the tattoo artists from the Antilles and no prize, no money can pay for that! More info: bushitattoo@hotmail.com or go to face book: bonairebushitattoo. Greta Kooistra
Bonaire Reporter- Oct. 28-Nov. 11, 2011
hen a Michelin Star chef decides to create a line of sauces, rubs and fruits to produce on Bonaire you know it will be special. Wil Heemskerk, who is the chef and owner of Wil’s Tropical Grill on Kaya L.D. Gerharts, drew on his experience to come up with a product that would have a strong appeal to Bonaire visitors and residents alike, under the name, “Flaming Flamingo.” There are five hot sauces, two barbeque sauces, two glazes, two marinades, six barbeque dry rugs and five dried fruits. All the products are based on tropical fruits, peppers and even rum. (see photo at right) Every one of the items were there for sampling at the opening, and very appreciative guests enjoyed tasting and comparing. Some are spicier than others, but all products have a full rich flavor. Wil comes from a food, beverage, restaurant family, and to help him and his wife Sue celebrate and launch these spicy new products, his mom, sister and brother in law were there to help. Flaming Flamingo products are sold at Wil’s Grill and at their stand at the Crafts Market at Wilhelmina Park on Cruise Ship visiting days. L/GD
It’s a family affair! Wil’s mom, Wil, Sue, Wil’s brother in law and sister at the tasting
Flaming Flamingo selection and price list
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