Fo’na Creating the People of Guam

“As the Museum’s focus is the Journey of the CHamoru people, it seemed most appropriate to begin the journey with reference to the creation myth. For me, the creation myth demonstrates the importance of family connections, which are demonstrated through Fo’na’s devotion to her brother by carrying out his final wishes, and through her commitment and connection to the land and the people. It was my intention to capture the spirit of the legend with a strong, yet sensitive female character. There is reference to Lalas rock in the clay that Fo’na is manipulating, following the idea that the people sprang from that rock. The newness of the island is depicted through wide open spaces and simple flora. The vines wrapped around Fo’na attach and anchor her to the earth. The new people that have been created are in various stages of development, and are grouped around Fo’na to indicate family connections.” –By Dawn Lees Reyes