The CHamoru Village in Hagatna has a vibrant new look - thanks to a stunning new mural by local artist Kamaka Aquino. But it’s more than just eye-catching art, it’s a powerful message aimed at sparking solutions for Guam’s growing sustainability challenges.

Water is life, and for Guam that life source is the Northern Lens Aquifer, supplying 80% of our drinking water. But as our world changes, how can we strengthen sustainability and ensure the prosperity of a critical resource? “God forbid if that were to ever get contaminated, we should have something to lean on to get fresh water on Guam," said Aquino.

Part of UOG's Guam Green Growth Art Corps, Aquino hopes to spark innovation and an answer to that question through his new mural downtown, drawing inspiration for solutions from our neighbors in the Marianas.

“Like what Saipan does - I was hoping that maybe Guam could do the same thing by incorporating water catchment systems, and hopefully, it inspires some people on the island to do the same at their own home," he shared.

His bright, bold art aims to catch the attention of the community, and in turn, create a chain reaction in line with the sustainable development goal: industry, innovation and infrastructure.

“I wanted to incorporate this big light bulb representing local ideas–so if we can think, dream, and create things to help bring our island towards more success, more prosperity, I wanted that to shine throughout the mural," he said.

It’s an important message Aquino says he’s proud to share, as he joins several other G3 Art Corps members in using their art for change. You can catch his mural at the CHamoru Village in Hagatna.