By Nazario Rodriguez Jr.
Horizon news staff

Senator Joshua Koshiba has introduced a bill that seeks to establish the Palau National Art Program that would assist in the collection, preservation and interpretation of Palauan art for permanent, public exhibition in and around the National Capitol and elsewhere.
Senate Bill 7-188, which was passed on first reading last April 25, explained that artistic and cultural resources are key to the overall quality of life of a community.
It said that Palauan art contributes significantly in fostering the nation’s ties to its past or history.
"It is essential that we establish the Palau National Art Program to integrate the skills of local artists with improvements to our National Capitol," the bill said.
The bill said that the New Capitol is devoid of artwork in spite of the fact that countless individuals from all around the world visited the edifice, thus, a permanent display of Palauan native art in the public areas of the building will greatly enhance its already magnificence appearance.
"These works of art will be an invaluable reference and research tool for students, educators, scholars and anyone interested in the study of Palauan history and culture," Koshiba’s bill explained.
The Ministry of Community and Cultural Affairs will provide oversight and coordination for all aspects of Palau National Art Program and its projects in conjunction with other governmental entities.
It will administer the program, its development and presentation of budget recommendations regarding costs and expenses, approve the acceptance of gifts, long-term loans of artwork and loans of State-owned artwork, document and archive projects and other functions.
A committee should be created composed of a member from each state who will advice and provide recommendations on the art program’s acquisitions, policies and procedures, approve artists and artwork ensuring equal access for project considerations to all qualified artists from each of the 16 states, ensure the anyone in a position to receive financial gain from the selection of artists will be ineligible to serve on the selection panel among other functions.