Dee Clayton
THE founder of Marianas Homeland has transformed her passion for handcrafted accessories into a thriving business that celebrates both sustainability and the rich heritage of the Mariana Islands. Meet Dee Clayton, Saipan’s contemporary artist, and her creative vision.
A return to island roots
After nearly two decades in the United States, Clayton made the bold decision to leave her stable banking career and return to her beloved island, Saipan.
“Growing up on Saipan, I developed a love for crafting and jewelry-making,” she said, her eyes lighting up as she shares her journey. “After 18 years in the States, where I attended college and worked for a bank, I returned home to pursue my dream of building a fashion business.”
That led to the birth of her fashion line, Marianas Homeland (https://marianashomeland.com/), which celebrates all things Marianas.
This transition wasn’t merely a career change; it represented a journey back home to her cultural roots and artistic passions. As a registered artist with the Department of Community and Cultural Affairs, Clayton has established herself as a voice for creative expression in the local community, proving that following one’s dreams can lead to extraordinary outcomes.
The art of sustainable creation
What distinguishes Marianas Homeland in the local artisan scenery is its innovative approach to creating beauty from sustainable practices. Clayton’s works are a testament to creative recycling, where discarded materials are transformed into beautiful pieces that carry both environmental consciousness and artistic value. Each piece tells a story of renewal and creative vision, challenging the conventional notion of what constitutes luxury and beauty in accessories.
“People resonated with the idea of owning something truly one-of-a-kind,” Clayton explains, discussing the overwhelming response to her handcrafted pieces. Her initial focus on personalized wooden nameplates and jewelry accessories quickly evolved into a diverse collection that captures the essence of island creativity while maintaining an unwavering commitment to quality and uniqueness.
$5 gifts, anyone?
Usually handmade gifts mean they’re expensive, Clayton has deliberately positioned Marianas Homeland to be accessible to everyone who appreciate artisanal craftsmanship.
“Our business offers a range of affordable items, from $5 to $25, making it easy to find the perfect gift for both kids and adults,” she said, emphasizing her belief that beautiful, meaningful accessories should be within everyone’s reach.
This pricing strategy has resonated particularly well with gift-givers who are looking for meaningful presents that carry a piece of the islands’ soul.
“Our items are especially popular for Christmas stocking stuffers or special occasion gifts,” Clayton notes, highlighting how her creations have become go-to choices for those looking to share a bit of Marianas magic with their loved ones.
Preserving heritage through fashion
Perhaps what’s most striking about Marianas Homeland is its role in cultural preservation. “As a local entrepreneur, I’m committed to sharing the beauty of the Chamorro culture through fashion,” Clayton states with pride. This commitment manifests in her collection of locally designed T-shirts, which feature traditional island motifs that speak to the heart of Marianas heritage.
These shirts have found particular resonance among men who appreciate authentic cultural expression, offering a way to wear their heritage with pride. Each design is carefully considered, ensuring that traditional elements are respectfully incorporated into contemporary fashion pieces that appeal to modern tastes while honoring ancient traditions, thanks to Clayton’s nephew and art collaborator, Julmar Indalecio.
Indalecio has roots in Guam and Saipan and, like Clayton, it is also his vision is to bridge tradition and modern aesthetics.
The creative process
Behind each Marianas Homeland piece lies a careful process of design and creation. Clayton’s work begins with sourcing materials, often finding beauty in items others might overlook. Her creative process combines traditional techniques with modern design sensibilities, resulting in pieces that are both timeless and contemporary. This fusion of old and new has become a hallmark of her brand, attracting customers who appreciate the thoughtful integration of heritage elements into everyday accessories.
A vision for the future
As Marianas Homeland continues to grow, Clayton’s vision extends beyond mere commercial success. She sees her work as part of a larger movement to preserve and celebrate Chamorro culture while promoting sustainable fashion practices in the Pacific. Through her creations, she’s not just selling accessories; she’s sharing stories, preserving traditions, and building bridges between generations.
Experience Marianas Homeland
For those eager to discover these unique creations firsthand, Marianas Homeland will be showcasing its latest collection at tomorrow’s Art Bazaar. Visit Booth No. 12 at the Multipurpose Building between 9 A.M. and 6 P.M. to meet Clayton and explore her distinctive range of sustainable, culturally inspired accessories and fashion pieces. Each item represents not just a purchase, but an investment in local artistry and cultural preservation.
