Inalåhan's muse: Judy Flores paints the soul of southern Guam

Judy Flores

By Ron Rocky Coloma

The Rocky Mountains and the village of Inalåhan couldn't be more different. One is a vast, rugged landscape of towering peaks and sweeping valleys; the other, a coastal village steeped in the warmth of its people and the enduring strength of CHamoru culture. Yet, for artist Judy Flores, both places define her journey. They represent roots that intertwine, shaping her perspective as an artist and as a woman who calls Guam home.

Flores was one of four women artists, who showcased their work in "Rooted," an exhibit at the Guam Museum that explores identity, culture and heritage in March.

"The four of us were brainstorming ideas for a theme that would allow us to explore our commonalities and our differences as women who call Guam home," Flores said. "I am among those who came from a very different place — the Rocky Mountains of Colorado — and as a pre-teen grew up in the village of Inalåhan. 

“It was a warm and friendly place to come of age, and I took a deep dive into the CHamoru culture,” she added. “I definitely became rooted in my island culture."

Her paintings for the exhibit reflect this journey, focusing on Guam's culture and history through the lens of Inalåhan, where she met her husband and raised her CHamoru children. 

"I have a responsibility to continue my husband’s legacy," Flores said. "I started by introducing my adopted culture through the CHamoru legend of the first people, a brother and sister who created the world: Fu’na and her brother, Puntan.”

She used the image of the Nunu (banyan) tree with its extensive, mysterious roots to further expand on the exhibit theme.

“The belief that this tree is the home of the ancestors is an image I have often used,” Flores said.

Fu’na, the first woman, and Puntan, whose name translates to "point of land," embody concepts central to CHamoru beliefs. 

"Fu’na as a woman emphasizes the fact that ancient CHamorus were a matrilineal society where women were revered and respected," Flores said. "Following her brother’s dying wish, Fu’na used parts of his body to make the earth, the ocean and everything on the land and in the sea."

Flores's medium of choice, batik, adds another layer to the storytelling. 

"Batik helps me create an exotic effect that helps tell my story," she said, describing the wax-resist layering of dyes on silk. "Each step requires drying the silk before applying melted wax over parts to be preserved."

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