Can you share a brief history of the Kwajalein Art Guild? When and why was it founded
What was the original mission or vision of the Art Guild—and how has that evolved over time?
The current vision of the art guild is to provide a space for all artisans to explore and practice their arts and to encourage all artisans of all levels to make art and share art.
What types of events does the Art Guild typically host throughout the year?
In addition to the myriad of classes, we put on two craft fairs per year and in conjunction with the YYWC we put on one-two major art shows to include the Photography show and Art Show. We are always looking for more ideas to help community members to bring their ideas to life.
Tell me more about signature events like the Art Show or the Photography Show—how did they come to be?
The current Art show was a collaboration between the previous YYWC Lead and the Art Guild that had the feeling of a fancy cocktail part and gave attendees the excuse to dress up and enjoy all different forms of art. The photography show is trying to do a different version of the Art show that would draw more community members in, because so many people on the island enjoy taking photographs, and we are always trying to encourage more people to do art.
How do these events support or benefit local artists and the broader Kwajalein community?
The Art show is about showing the artists creation without having to produce large quantities to sell. It provides venues to get the community together in a different way than our traditional events, and meet new people.
Who can join the Kwajalein Art Guild, and how can someone get involved?
All residents can join including families. The easiest way to get involved is to attend Art Guild monthly meetings that are held on the second Tuesday of the month at 5:30pm in the Art Annex. They can also reach out to any of the officers.
What kinds of members make up the Guild—are they mostly professional artists, hobbyists, or a mix?
The majority of our Art Guild members attended one of our classes. The art guild is not specifically focused for professionals, they are for anyone who wants to explore creativity in any forms.
How does the Guild foster creativity and collaboration among members?
We’re constantly encouraging members of the guild and the community to try art through classes and major events.
What makes creating or displaying art on Kwajalein unique?
Kwajalein is a very very small community and a lot of times we don’t know that caliber of our friends we hang out with at the beach have these talents. And the Art Guild has been able to bring that out for the artists that wouldn’t have otherwise been able to show off their talents. And it helps when they teach classes, whether they are an expert or not.
What are some challenges the Art Guild has faced in recent years?
The reduced population on Kwajalein, getting enough helping hands to run the big events and teach the classes, is always a challenge. We can always use more people helping.
What is your vision for the future of the Art Guild? Any goals or new initiatives in the works?
Yes! There’s been so much interest in the stained glass classes, that we are starting an Art of the Month theme with various classes highlighting the month. August is Photography, September is Tie Dye, October is Stained Glass, November is Painting, and December is Holiday crafts. We are exploring more great themes for the coming months.
How do you hope the Art Guild will continue to impact the community in the coming years?
I really hope that the Art Guild builds community that allows the technically oriented an outlet to express their creative sides.
What inspired you personally to become involved in the Art Guild?
Zoe – The purpose of the art guild spoke me more than other clubs I’ve participated in before, and I really enjoy learning about stained glass and teaching others. I love the space, and the fact that anyone can use it at any time of day. This is especially useful for a full-time working mom.
Stephanie – I’ve always loved working with my hands in various art forms, I have more hobbies than I can remember to name. I really liked the idea of a community devoted to encouraging each other to do these various creative arts. As president, I love getting to share this with others.
What does being part of the Guild mean to you?
The Guild is about getting others to do something they can find joy in, express their inner creativity that is good for their sole. We can always do art alone, but being in the Guild means we get to share that with others.
Can you tell me about the Art guild senior scholarship, and requirements?
Building community, supporting the Art Guild community, and practicing the arts, and these are the things we want to instill in everyone including students. So the scholarship is based on these pillars. Students can apply in the Spring before graduation, are invited to interview with some of the Art guild members to discuss what art means to them, and their projects.
Does the Kwajalein Art Guild meet regularly?
Every month, second Tuesday at 5:30pm in the Art Annex. See you there!