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4/28/2025—The invaluable contributions of local artists who have passed this last year—Michael Hocog Naputi, Antonio R. Cabrera, and Ann Perry—were remembered and honored during the start of the 44th Flame Tree Arts Festival last Friday, April 25, at the Garapan Fishing Base.
Gov. Arnold I. Palacios, Lt. Gov. David M. Apatang, and Department of Community and Cultural Affairs Secretary Francisco M. Rabauliman handed the families of Naputi, Cabrera, and Perry plaques recognizing their contributions in enriching the local arts and culture.
Emcees Frankie Eliptico and Catherine Perry then went on to read the brochure that enumerated the accomplishments of the three.
They said Naputi is a multi-talented artist, farmer, woodworker, and shell carver whose journey into craftsmanship began in 2014.
“Initially, he started by cultivating and producing local produce, such as donne' ma lommok, misu Donne, coconut oil, and even dabbled in creating local virgin oil. This foundational experience in working with natural materials laid the groundwork for his future artistic pursuits.”
A year later, Naputi discovered his passion for woodworking, crafting abstract designs that captured his creativity, though he was never interested in selling his pieces. During this time, he also delved into the art of polishing local sea shells, particularly the pooka and spondylus, honing his skill over time. This fascination with shells led him to design necklaces using polished shells as beads and pendants, which would eventually become one of his signature creations.
“Mike’s approach to his art is deeply rooted in a philosophy he holds as an artist. He believes that a true craftsman should design pieces that are tailored to the individual wearer, rather than simply producing pre-designed items introduced by the wearer. For Mike, each necklace tells a story, and it is the artist's role to create designs that resonate with the wearer's unique identity. This commitment to personalizing his craft is what makes his work truly special and distinctive.”
In addition to his shell carving and woodworking, Naputi ventured into the world of fashion, producing local shirts with designs inspired by both modern and ancient Chamorro themes. His artwork often features symbols like spears, the latte stone, and other elements reflecting the rich Chamorro culture, blending tradition with contemporary expression.
“Mike’s work is a reflection of his deep connection to his heritage and his dedication to preserving and celebrating Chamorro customs through his craft. Each piece he creates carries the essence of his philosophy, making his work not only a craft but a statement of cultural pride and artistry.”
Cabrera was more than a photographer as he was a true artist—one who had world the rare gift of seeing beauty in the ordinary and capturing life in its most genuine form, according to Eliptico and Perry.
“Through his lens, he didn't just take pictures—he told stories. Stories of joy and struggle, of connection and solitude, of everyday moments that, in his hands, became timeless. His photographs reminded us to slow down, to see each other, and to appreciate the world around us. And he didn't keep that gift to himself. Antonio shared it freely-mentoring young artists, volunteering his time, and using his work to bring people together, to uplift, to inspire.”
Even now, though Cabrera has passed, his vision lives on—in the images he created, in the lives he touched, and in the spirit of this festival.
“Today, we honor him not only as an artist but as a friend, a neighbor, and a vital part of our creative community. As you walk through this festival, take a moment to view his work, reflect on his legacy, and remember the way he saw the who had world—with wonder, with compassion, and beauty in with love. Thank you, Antonio, for showing us life through your eyes. Your art, your heart, and your spirit will always be with us.”
For Perry, Eliptico said this wonderful woman was lovingly known to many as Anna and Nena and always wore a smile wherever she went.
“She enjoyed being an active member of the local community and among her acquaintances at the Man’Amko Center. In the early ’90s, she assisted with chaperoning a few Tanapag Elementary School students to Onoun, Chuuk, to learn of their ancestors' humble origin and cultural history. Shortly after her return, she carefully took that knowledge and, along with other women and their daughters of Tanapag formed the Talaabwog Women's Traditional Stick Dancers.”
He said this ethnic group of women performed at various local community events like religious fiestas and cultural festivals around the island. She also traveled abroad with the group to places like Apia, Western Samoa in 1996 for the Festival of Pacific Arts & Culture and to Palau in 2004 for their mini arts festival event.
“Another creative talent she valued and took pride in, was her skillfulness at crafting beaded jewelry. These typically included belts, bracelets, chokers and lighatutuurs for the local dancers, and for family members, whether it was for memorable occasions or simply a precious gift of maternal love.”
In his opening remarks, Rabauliman welcomed everyone to the 44th Annual Flame Tree Arts Festival, which he said is the longest running arts festival in Micronesia.
He said this year’s three-day event will see nearly 100 off-island performers from Hawaii, Guam, Palau, Rota, and Tinian. To commemorate this event, he said two separate traditional canoe voyages were launched days ago, one from Guam sponsored by the University of Guam and another from Tinian sponsored by 500 Sails, Inc.
Rabauliman added while there are over 40 booths with artists strung throughout the fairgrounds, displaying their fine artworks, there are many more artworks from different artists, such as paintings, carvings, and photographs that are featured in the tent in the center of the fairgrounds that includes paintings, carvings, and photographs from other artists.
“I urge you to take time to visit these booths and be amazed on the enormous talent that we have here in our small community...So, take the time to visit these booths. You will be blown away. And if your pastime is food like me, there are over 10 food vendors with a variety of culinary delicacies for your enjoyment.”
Palacios, for his part in his welcoming remarks, said it’s truly an honor to join this year’s Flame Tree Arts Festival as the CNMI embarks on a celebration of creativity, culture, and community.
“This signature event, recognized throughout our region, honors our local communities’ rich heritage, cultural diversity, and artistry. This year, our theme is equity, accessibility, and inclusion and it will serve as a reminder of the essential values that unite us as we embrace the vibrant tapestry of artistic expression thriving within and beyond our borders. Art has the power to transcend barriers and connect us in profound ways, sparking conversations about our shared experiences and aspirations.”
Commonwealth Council for Arts and Culture executive director Gloriana Teuira said this year’s cultural festival is more than just a celebration as it’s an opportunity to learn, grow, and be inspired by the diverse talents and traditions of the region.
“Through music, dance, art, and food, we can experience the vibrant stories of different cultures. May this festival ignite our curiosity, broaden our perspectives, and leave us with deeper appreciation for the beauty of our human diversity.
She then thanked the event’s sponsors led by title sponsor Bridge Capital, LLC. The rest includes the Marianas Visitors Authority, Bank of Guam, IT&E, Atkins Kroll, Triple J, Tan Siu Lin Foundation, PDI, MarPac, Coca-Cola,EST Tent, CNMI Designs, JET Holdings, and Kautz Glass Company Inc.
Teuira also acknowledged, partner agencies and they are the Office of the Governor, Office of the Lt. Governor, Saipan Mayor’s Office, Department of Public Safety, Department of Fire and Emergency Services, Department of Public Works Department of Public Lands, Saipan Zoning Office BECQ-Division of Coastal Resource Management, DLNR-Parks and Recreation, and Office of the Governor-Women's Affairs Office.
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Story by Mark Rabago
Photos by Leigh Gases
Video by Thomas Manglona II
View more photos of the festival at https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1Bo9aaQU3G/
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