A singular artistic voice captures the vibrant spirit of Belize with bold color and imaginative scenes: Walter Castillo, one of the nation’s most beloved and internationally celebrated artists.

“I’ve been painting for many years,” Castillo shares with a warm smile. “My first international exhibit was at 17, held at Cavendish Square in London. I went just for fun, never expecting to sell anything. But I sold out completely, and everything changed after that.”

Since then, his work has traveled the globe from Japan and Italy to France and the United States. “I’ve become a kind of ambassador for Belize,” he says. “My art travels, but it always speaks of home.”

Born in Nicaragua but raised in San Pedro Town on Ambergris Caye, Castillo was deeply moved by the vibrant culture around him. “When I arrived here, the country overwhelmed me in the best way. The dances, colors, and freedom of the people left a lasting impression.”

This inspiration bursts through his canvases with whimsical scenes of village life, breezy coastlines, and lively characters rendered in his unmistakable style. “People ask where I get my inspiration. I say, “Look around. Belize is full of beauty. I paint everyday life through a lens of joy and wonder.”

With no formal art education, Castillo developed his style through intuition and experimentation. “I started with raw color, painting what I felt. Over time, this evolved into what I call ‘naïve fine art’—whimsical in movement and color, yet detailed and thoughtful.”

After decades of work and travel between Europe and Belize, Castillo now lives in the Cayo District, continuing to paint daily. “I put a lot of love into my work. As long as there’s Belize around me, there will always be inspiration.”

Castillo’s original paintings are sold at GariMaya Gift Shop in Hopkins, Stann Creek District, or through his studio in Bullet Tree Falls, Cayo District. He can be contacted via Facebook Messenger at www.facebook.com/waltercastilloart or WhatsApp (501) 622-4936.