Frankie M. Eliptico, president of the Off the Beaten Path, which organized the event, said it was designed to showcase the creativity, ingenuity, imagination and originality of CNMI’s local artists.
Guests were treated to a wide array of locally produced fashion accessories, food and wine products, gifts, crafts, garments, and other products found only in the Marianas.
“What is unique in this festival is everything is made in the Marianas, hence the name of the festival,” Eliptico said.
He said two establishments will benefit from the event — the CNMI Museum and the CNMI Autism Society.
“Part of the proceeds will be used to plan for the next event for the Austism Society sometime in November,” Eliptico said.
He added that the whole concept of the Made in the Marianas Festival is to entice visitors and locals to try the islands’ delectable dishes and locally produced beverages and products.
Among the artists who displayed their work and crafts were Ernie David with his Sakura leaf acrylic painting, Marianas Tropical Liquor, Susan’s Creations, Kate Fuller’s Fusion Designs, Marianas Pottery by artist Barry Wonenberg, Island Infusions, beads by Laly 4our Seaside Girls, photographs by Leslie Ware, and seed necklaces by Emy Bugurin.
Although most of artists have displayed their products at big annual events like the Flame Tree Arts Festival, they said Wednesday’s event provided them a good chance to showcase their products at a “more intimate level.”
