I didn’t expect to run into one of Belize’s most iconic artists on a regular errand run to town. I had just pulled up at the airport terminal, my mind juggling a list of things to do, when something caught my eye—bold strokes of color, a very large painting standing on an easel, and a man standing quietly next to it, head down, absorbed in his phone.
That Man was Alex Sanker.
Anyone familiar with Belize’s artistic landscape knows the name. Alex Sanker is a force – his works are drenched in color and emotion, and they don’t just speak—they shout, whisper, protest, and heal all at once. His art is known not only for its striking visual appeal but for its heart. Every piece carries a message. Every brushstroke holds a story.
What He Had with Him Today was no Exception.
Next him was a remarkable painting of Pilot Howell Grange, the pilot now celebrated as a national hero for saving the lives of his passengers during a terrifying hijacking of a Tropic Air commercial flight. In the painting, Grange is depicted with quiet strength, seated confidently in the pilot’s chair. A close-up of the plane’s exterior bears the word “Hero” boldly across it—a powerful, visual declaration of gratitude and honor.
Alex Sanker Talks About his Piece
Curious and Moved, I Walked up and Asked him about the Piece.
Alex Sanker shared that he had personally brought the painting to Tropic Air in hopes that the company would want to acquire it—perhaps to present to Grange as a symbol of recognition. But he told me, a bit disappointed, that the airline declined the offer.
“Mission accomplished!!” he told me passionately. “Historical painting recording the good and bad in our nation for future generations! Brought it to the company personally for them to have a first-hand look at this masterpiece—unfortunately, for whatever reason, they are not interested. Which, to me, is realistically sad. Honoring a legend—one of their pilots—is obviously not in their interest, again, which is sad. I think something like this is supposed to be purchased by the company and given to the pilot as a token of appreciation. When it comes to a very heroic thing that he did—historical situation that he handled professionally—may God continue to bless him on his way to recovery, and thanks again.”
Despite the letdown, Alex Sanker hasn’t lost hope. He said he’s looking for another way to sell the piece and is even considering donating it directly to Pilot Grange as a heartfelt gift. This, to me, speaks volumes about who Alex Sanker is—not just as an artist, but as a citizen who deeply loves his country.
Art has always been a powerful form of self-expression—a way to document history, spark conversation, and honor truth. That’s the essence of Sanker’s work. He epitomizes what it means to accomplish much by loving what you do and doing it exceptionally well.
Known for political and cultural pieces that often line the streets of Belize City, Alex Sanker’s art is deeply intertwined with the heartbeat of the nation. Whether he’s painting social justice, folklore, or moments of national pride and pain, his work isn’t just seen—it’s felt.
His paintings boast rich colors, dynamism, and an unmistakable energy that stimulates the senses and provokes conversation. In the world of art, there are few who blend passion, storytelling, and culture as effectively as he does. His gift lies not just in his ability to paint, but in his ability to connect—to evoke emotion and reflection in everyone who stands before his work.
As I left that day, I found myself thinking about how easily I could have missed the moment—a nationally celebrated artist quietly standing in the shade, holding a masterpiece and a message, hoping someone would stop to see both.
I’m glad I did.
