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LDTF revives Project Haligi
From demonstrating the CNMI’s resiliency in the wake of Super Typhoon Yutu in 2018, Project Haligi of the Lady Diann Torres Foundation is being renamed the 2020 Canvas of Hope, again, as a demonstration of the CNMI’s resiliency but this time amid the COVID-19 pandemic. This is again intended to give artists in the CNMI a chance to display their talent to the community.
Project Haligi was created to invite local artists to illustrate their artwork of culture, the beauty of the island and its surroundings, and local myths and legends. The paintings or drawings are displayed on concrete power poles throughout the islands of Saipan, Tinian, and Rota.
Over the past years, the Northern Marianas has been hit by numerous typhoons of varying strengths. The CNMI was devastated by Typhoon Soudelor in 2015 and Super Typhoon Yutu in 2018. It all left images of destroyed homes, buildings and water, electricity, and communication infrastructure.
First lady Diann Torres and the members of the LDTF have decided that it’s time to do something once more to lift the spirits of the people of the CNMI.
“Project Haligi was born out of the need to spread hope. ‘Haligi’ is a Chamorro word that translates to ‘pole.’ These poles (power poles) will not only be used to spread a message of hope and strength, but will also be designed to help beautify the islands for our people and visitors,” LDTF said in a statement.
In 2019, Project Haligi was able to dress up 44 concrete utility poles with island-themed artwork.
This year, LDTF is again inviting artists in the CNMI to submit their creative designs that express and represent any topic pertaining to the Northern Marianas.
LDTF will partner with local artists, the Marianas Visitors Authority, and local businesses to execute the project. Each artist will be receiving a stipend of $100 to $300 (depending on level of art) for each completed pole.
Local artists that are interested may apply at www.shortcut.at/bpJP9 and email a proposed art piece at tbabauta@mymarianas.com
For more information, contact 664-3200 and email tbabauta@mymarianas.com or ladydianntorres@gmail.com.
