Belize boasts a melting pot of people who are proud, talented, resilient, and friendly, whose love for their country is reflected across industries.

Belizean artist Alex Sanker, a son of San Antonio Village, Corozal District in Belize, is well-known for his inspiring works of art that often highlight Belizean culture.

He epitomises what it means to accomplish much by loving what you do and doing it exceptionally well.

Boasting rich colours, dynamism and striking visuals, his art is known to stimulate the senses and provoke conversation.

Yello is highlighting the work of Caribbean movers and shakers, as well as our talented creatives.

If you already know of Alex’s amazing paintings, consider this a reintroduction and if you are reading about him for the first time – meet Alex Sanker.

Let’s begin with your home, Belize. What are three things that you love most about Belizean culture?

I love that Belizean culture is authentic, vibrant and most of all that I’m part of it. This is what I capture in my paintings.

How many years have you been a painter, and how did you get into it?

I’ve been a painter for the past 24 years. I got involved in the painting industry years ago when it was what I did as a hobby. As the years passed by, I fell in love with the craft, and my skills improved tremendously.

Your work is featured on the cover of the 2021 Belize directory. What inspired that painting?

I came up with the concept through the present time that we’re living. It’s obvious that there is a lot of hate around the world. The world needs more love and unity. I decided to use this concept as it shows all the ethnic groups joining hands together and sharing love. The children represent the youths, who are our future.

What are some of the key elements of Belizean culture that you included?

The painting features elements of child-play and includes toys that are strategically placed, among them, a slingshot, marbles, jump rope and stilts. They’ve stopped playing with their toys, used a stick to draw a heart and stand with hands linked in a circle that symbolises love, unity, diversity, and hope. I also painted them wearing beautiful traditional garments that represent the various ethnic groups in Belize.

How do you want people to feel when they view your work?

I want people to be able to grasp the concept that love, and unity can overcome any obstacle.

Share a little about your process when creating a new painting.

When I do a new painting, it usually takes a lot of dedication, time, imagination, and most of all, patience. I want to ensure that the correct message comes across.

A lot of your work is showcased in Belize. Where else can your work be viewed?

In early 2020, I did a street painting in tribute to the late basketball legend, Kobe Bryant and his daughter, Gigi. That painting can be seen on Figueroa Street in Los Angeles. My work is also featured on my Facebook page (Alex Sanker), and Instagram (@alexsanker). You can also drop my name on Google, and my work will come up.

We hope you enjoyed this feature on this talented Belizean painter. We are excited to highlight Alex and wish him continued success!

Want to read about other Caribbean creatives? Check out our interview with Jamaican dancehall culture ambassador, dancer and choreographer, Kimiko Miller!

*Images provided by A. Sanker.