HYATT Regency Saipan officially launched an in-house arts and crafts fair for local women artists on Thursday in celebration of Women’s History Month, International Women’s Day and CNMI Women’s Month.
The monthlong event is a partnership between the Hyatt and the Department of Community and Cultural Affairs.
“We respect the history and culture of the islands, and we understand that local artists have been doing their crafts for hundreds of years. Their art skills and crafts have been passed on from generation to generation,” Hyatt Regency Saipan General Manager Simon Graf told Variety in an interview.
He said the art exhibit will help promote local arts and crafts to tourists and other people from different cultural backgrounds.
Graf said the Hyatt has also opened its doors to local artists who want to exhibit their work for a year.
“It is part of Hyatt’s commitment to support the local community. Supporting the community is an integral part of our brand and existence,” he added.
He is inviting community members to continue patronizing local products and to support the local women artists who are showcasing their arts and crafts in the Hyatt lobby.
“Our arms are wide open to welcome the community. Let us come together to support our local artists,” he said.
Jadine Hocog is one of the local women artists participating in the arts and crafts fair.
“As islanders,” she said, “we should be able to showcase our traditional artwork and crafts to our visitors.”
Hocog creates kukuna necklaces, bojobo and shell necklaces, and other handmade accessories.
She said many tourists are not familiar with Chamorro and Carolinian cultures and artwork.
“Hyatt has given us a venue where we can show what our traditional arts and crafts are,” she added.
She is encouraging other local artists to also showcase their talents.
“We have a lot of hidden talents. They have to understand their potential in creating beautiful things and sharing them with the people,” she said.
From left, Denise Montenegro, Hyatt director of human resources; Rachel Wehlburg, assistant director of engineering; Barbara Sablan, account manager; Margaret Rose Calub, account supervisor; Noemi Catigan, chief accountant; Bea O’Malley, marketing and communications manager; and Penny Jones, human resources manager.
