My Story Behind My Four Seasons of Guam Painting

In many places, people grow up knowing the four seasons as winter, spring, summer, and fall. I always imagined what it would feel like to experience those kinds of seasons, seeing snow fall, watching leaves change color, and feeling the difference between each time of year. But growing up on the beautiful island of Guam, our seasons felt different.

We knew sunny days, rainy weather, mango season, and atu'lai season, meaning,

when the mackerel come in and fishermen head out to sea. These are the seasons I grew up with. They are part of my memories, my culture, and the traditions that shaped my upbringing.

This painting was inspired by the beauty of my island and the way life is experienced here on Guam. I’m sure many islanders can relate to these kinds of memories growing up around the ocean, family gatherings, fishing, and nature. And for those who have never lived on an island, I hope this painting gives a small glimpse into the culture, rhythm, and beauty of island life and the seasons that shape it.