Like a beautifully woven tapestry, the Pacific is made up of countless threads, each representing a unique culture, a cherished tradition, and a shared experience. 

Here in Guam, CHamoru customs blend with Filipino, Micronesian, Japanese, Korean, and other influences, creating a rich interconnected identity.

Now, this intricate blend of cultures is coming to life through art. 

A Tapestry of Resilience: Woven Through Diversity brings together works from renowned local artists, UOG Fine Arts faculty, and emerging talents. UOG Adjunct Professor and Artist Jerrold Dwayne Castro.

“So the University of Guam is hosting a research conference called Tapestries of Resilience and on top of that they usually have an art exhibition and it showcases some of the issues that the conference discusses,” said Castro. “They talk about sustainability, climate change, different aspects of security- military, physical, things of that nature.”

The exhibit explores themes of identity, assimilation, and empowerment, capturing both the extraordinary and the everyday moments of life in the Pacific.  

“We got some pretty big heavy hitters like Mark Sell'isola, who is known for his immense tapestries of work, we've got Joshua Agerstrand, who  is one of the top muralist on Guam today and you see his work all over the island. And we have Mark Murer who does mosaics in glass. One of the more established artists that have been around in the local community today,” said Professor and Artist Ric Castro.

A Tapestry of Resilience: Woven Through Diversity is on display now, showcasing the power of art to unite, inspire, and tell the story of our island’s rich heritage. 

Make it a point to stop by for the reception on Friday, March 7 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the UOG Isla Center for the Arts located in the Dean's Circle, House #15 and see the pieces up close of all these incredible artists.