From left, Robert Neil Alvarez, Greg Bacnis, and Christian Apolonio pose for a photo with their winning artworks at The Cultural Lounge of Crowne Plaza Resort Saipan, during the awarding ceremony on July 17. The three artists earned 3rd, 2nd, and 1st place, respectively, in the inaugural CPRS Artist of the Summer Art Contest.
Contributed photo
(Special Advertising Feature) — Crowne Plaza Resort Saipan proudly announces the winners of its “Artist of the Summer” art competition, a cultural initiative celebrating the indigenous culture of the CNMI through local artistry.
The contest invited artists across the Marianas to submit original pieces that reflect the traditions, stories, and identity of the indigenous people of the islands. The top three winners are:
1st Place – Christian S. Apolonio for “Marianas Treasure”
2nd Place – Greg Bacnis for “The Carvers”
3rd Place – Robert Neil Alvarez for “Gotcha”
Christian S. Apolonio’s winning piece, “Marianas Treasure,” is a vibrant oil painting that took him around three weeks to complete. The artwork is a tribute to the natural beauty and cultural essence of the islands. In his description, Apolonio shares:
“The Northern Mariana Islands is known for its all-year-round summer weather and crystal-clear water beaches. The flame tree, Saipan’s state tree — though not indigenous to the island — holds undeniable beauty and significance. It is where creations such as the Mariana Fruit Dove and different species of plumeria and hibiscus continuously bloom and flourish, making it home to the locals of the island as well as those who have yet to uncover the treasure found in the middle of the Pacific Ocean.”
He further expressed his heartfelt gratitude:
“My heart is full of so much gratitude to Crowne Plaza Resort Saipan for choosing my artwork ‘Marianas Treasure’ as one of the first winners of this year’s Artist of the Summer. This kind of competition gives every single artist in the Northern Mariana Islands a platform to showcase their creative talent and love for our beloved islands, which are blessed with so much natural wonder and rich culture. I also encourage my fellow artists, especially the younger ones, to continue creating wonderful pieces that will contribute vibrant colors and warmth to our small but beautiful island we call home — celebrated not only by our local relatives but also by tourists. Thank you so much to our Lord God, my dearest family and friends for their love and unwavering support, and to all the people who believe in my craft — you are all amazing.”
The awarding ceremony was held on July 17 and led by Crowne Plaza Resort Saipan General Manager Clayton Darlington, who personally congratulated the winners and expressed appreciation for the artists’ contributions to cultural preservation and community engagement.
“We are incredibly honored to showcase these works of art,” said Darlington. “This contest not only spotlighted amazing local talent but also deepened our appreciation for the indigenous roots that shape the Marianas.”
All submitted entries — including the winning pieces — will be on public display until July 25 at the CPRS Cultural Lounge, located inside Crowne Plaza Resort Saipan. Guests and residents alike are encouraged to stop by, experience the artwork firsthand, and celebrate the richness of CNMI culture.
Crowne Plaza Resort Saipan extends its heartfelt thanks to all participating artists for sharing their creativity and passion.
For more information about upcoming cultural events, contact the CPRS Cultural Lounge at (670) 234-6412 or visit Instagram @crowneplazaresortsaipan/.
