2025IntegrArte - Rhythms of Sea and Land - Miniature Sheet

In a joint effort to highlight the cultural and artistic richness of the province of Limón, Correos de Costa Rica, in collaboration with the Office of the First Lady and the European Union’s “Afroinclusive” project in Costa Rica, unveiled the stamp issue IntegrArte: Rhythms of Sea and Land this Friday. This initiative is part of the IntegrArte program, which promotes inclusion and youth development through urban art.

The launch ceremony took place at the Plaza de la Cultura in San José, attended by government authorities, diplomatic representatives, and members of the artistic community. The event included a formal presentation featuring First Lady Signe Zeikate, Deputy Ambassador of the European Union in Costa Rica Galina Karamalakova, and Minister of Culture Jorge Rodríguez Vives. The official cancellation of the stamp issue was carried out, showcasing the mural created by artists from Limón, along with the presentation of a commemorative frame.

Following the formalities, attendees enjoyed cultural performances, a live mural painting, street parades, and photographic exhibitions — all within a festive space celebrating and recognizing urban art.

“This issue, which carries the messages of our youth, will travel to United Nations member countries, be exhibited in international postal museums, and become part of private philatelic collections around the world. It will tell the story of Costa Rica, of Limón, and of a new generation that believes in inclusion, justice, and peace,” — Signe Zeikate, First Lady of the Republic

Galina Karamalakova, Deputy Ambassador of the European Union in Costa Rica, affirmed:

“The European Union remains firmly committed to promoting culture and art as fundamental elements for social development and cohesion. Through the project Afroinclusive: Strengthening the cultural, political, and socioeconomic inclusion of the Afro-Costa Rican population, implemented by the Foundation for Art and Culture for Development (FUACDE) and the Agency for Business Development (GAT SUR ALTO), we aim not only to highlight the richness and diversity of Afro-Costa Rican culture, but also to foster essential values such as respect, tolerance, and inclusion — key principles for building a more equitable and prosperous future for our communities. In this spirit, we wholeheartedly support the creation of this stamp issue, which symbolizes the valuable cultural contribution of Limón’s youth, who represent the driving force of change toward a more inclusive and just future for all.”

Mauricio Rojas Cartín, General Manager of Correos de Costa Rica, emphasized the role of the postal service as a vehicle for cultural dissemination and a witness to the nation’s history:

“Every stamp tells a story. More than an image, it’s a message of identity and hope. We are proud to reflect in this issue not only the artistic talent of Limón, but also the values of respect, coexistence, and cultural pride that this community and its youth embody.”

A Philatelic Tribute

The stamp issue IntegrArte: Rhythms of Sea and Land reinforces Costa Rica’s commitment to the inclusion of its Afro-descendant population. It features a souvenir sheet inspired by the IntegrArte-Limón mural, an artistic piece displayed at the Big Boy Municipal Baseball Stadium, now immortalized in a philatelic piece that will travel the world.

The design was developed from a photograph taken by Henry Oviedo Cordero, with fragments selected to construct this postal tribute, which entered circulation on Friday, April 4.

The first-day postmark features a line drawing of a mural detail depicting a set of musical instruments, accompanied by the name of the issue and its inscriptions.

About the Mural

The IntegrArte-Limón Mural is a project developed by First Lady Signe Zeikate, as part of a national initiative aimed at youth, promoting a culture of peace and well-being through diverse artistic expressions.

More than 70 children and adolescents from the central canton of Limón participated in the creation of this mural, inaugurated in August 2023. Covering 240 square meters, it incorporates various elements representative of Afro-Costa Rican culture, including music, sports, and nature.

As part of its community work, IntegrArte fosters public–private partnerships to promote a culture of integration and equity through art.