Previous Story
First ever Island Artist Exhibit unveiled at Grand Hotel lobby
|
Posted on Jan 24 2012
By Clarissa David
Reporter
Reporter
Over 100 artworks of 19 artists are featured at the Commonwealth Council for Arts and Culture’s first Island Artist Exhibit, which opened at the Saipan Grand Hotel lobby on Friday.
These artists are Martin Castro, Jr., Priscilla J.P., Leslie Ware, Catherine Perry, Vicente Duenas, Chen Xiao Ping, Raphaela Rubwan, Joe Weaver, Cherry Camigla, Michael Finey, Frank Secharmidal, Sandy Weaver, Joe Kani, Debra Winkfield, Ernie David, Jennifer Kogure, Nick Klewei, Gregorio Villegas Bacnis, and Mark Robertson.
The exhibit, which is open to the public for free until Feb. 29, will also be featuring during weekends live art demonstrations such as painting, weaving, and carving, said Arts Council visual and traditional coordinator Darrell Moteisou.
Moteisou said more artists are expected to display their artworks-paintings, photographs, ornaments, accessories, and wood carvings, among others-in the coming days.
“There’s definitely more interest coming from our artists, some of whom have just recently become registered with the Arts Council,” Moteisou told Saipan Tribune.
Moteisou said the open venue for the exhibit appealed to the artists. “They like the hotel lobby because it can attract more tourists who can buy their creations as a personal souvenir or gifts for loved ones back home.”
He noted that the artworks are safeguarded by the hotel’s security personnel and cameras as well as other staff.
Priscilla J.P., who makes ornaments from recycled products such as coconut husks, shells, and seeds, said that it is generous of the Saipan Grand Hotel management to host the exhibit for them.
“We’re glad that they helped us promote our art especially in these trying times when it’s more difficult for local artists to earn a living,” she said. “I just hope that we’ll get more support from the rest of the community.”
Moteisou urged the public to support local artists by visiting the Island Artist Exhibit. “We invite you to check out their works and see if there’s anything they would want to buy.”
For more information, visit the Arts Council next to the post office on Capital Hill or call 322-9982 or 83.
