Sustainability is growing with the launch of the University of Guam and DFS “Guam in Bloom” sustainable art exhibit. 

A crowd gathered at the T Galleria by DFS in Tumon, to celebrate the unveiling of the exhibit created by the University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant’s (UOG CIS/SG) Guam Green Growth (G3) Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub team.

The exhibit, a celebration of Guam’s rich cultural heritage and commitment to environmental stewardship, featured a diverse array of artwork honoring the native and endemic plants of the island.

According to DFS Vice-President of Operations Billy Chung, sustainability is an important movement for the island that DFS takes seriously in their support. 

“We are extremely excited to be able to host the ‘Guam in Bloom’ exhibit here in our Galleria. For us here at DFS T Galleria, sustainability is something that we hold closely in our hearts,” said Chung. “This is something that influences our decisions in a day-to-day manner in order to protect sustainability, our environment and also the local culture here on Guam.”

UOG President Anita Borja Enriquez Ph.D., credited the UOG CIS/SG team for their dedication to conservation and preservation.  She also underscored the university’s commitment to continuing the development of conservation workers for our island.

“I am so excited that we are able to continue to bring the talent that comes from the newer generation of conservation leaders and conservation warriors,” Enriquez expressed.  “Keep up this voyage so that the future generations are assured and can participate in ensuring that we continue to foster this sustainable culture and sustainable future for our island and our region!”

Lt. Governor Joshua Tenorio, who also co-chairs the G3 Steering Committee, was appreciative of the partnership between DFS and the university along with the support for the local arts community. 

“The theme ‘Guam in Bloom’ also in many ways recognizes all the talent we have that’s blooming. And a lot of that talent is blooming at the University of Guam and in particular at the UOG Center for Island Sustainability & Sea Grant,” said Tenorio. “I want to thank the team at DFS—an enduring member of Guam’s business and social community for recognizing that there is a value in showcasing all the best of Guam, but in particular to give a landscape for  Guam’s talent to be exposed and showcased.”

Austin Shelton Ph.D., director of the UOG CIS/SG, highlighted the exhibit’s outreach component and the importance of the message of the art.

“Sustainability is not about sacrifice anymore. It’s about opportunity. We can have a green economy, we can build our economy, diversify beyond military spending, and tourism. We can see the beautiful things that our local artists are bringing out to the community,” said Shelton.  

The exhibit is a part of the Sustainable September activities that included a tree planting event, a beach cleanup and workshops and is the second partnership with DFS.   

With support from the Guam Green Growth team, the local artists behind the creations were Abby Crain, April Colitoy-Gaerlan, and Francheska de Oro.

“Guam in Bloom” is on exhibit at the T Galleria by DFS on Chalan San Vitores in Tumon during regular store hours and is open to the public.  

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