Sea-Through is a contemporary group creation: It is where nature complements our daily lives in the present moment. Through this passion project, we are honored to introduce some local creatives of the Commonwealth of The Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) and the struggles they face as an artist to get where they want to be.
THE ISLAND'S ESSENCE EXHIBIT BY TONY ATALIG
Model: Riane Capalad
Barefoot and above
What is the best part about being a local creative in the Northern Mariana Islands?
Tony: The best part about being a local artist in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) is that I am surrounded by nature's natural beauty while enjoying a modernized life in our community. I can enjoy the best of both worlds. It's an extraordinary balance!
I knew that it would be difficult for my work and art to be seen, but with patience and determination, I have expanded my social life and made my work speak for itself.
What are the challenges you face, and how do you overcome them?
Tony: A challenge I often encounter is the lack of exposure to my art. The Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) consists of 14 islands. I was born and raised in Rota, the southernmost island of the Marianas chain. Moving to Saipan, the largest island in the CNMI, I knew that it would be difficult for my work and art to be seen, but with patience and determination, I have expanded my social life and made my work speak for itself.
Logo by Tony Atalig
Antonio (Tony) Atalig III
Antonio "Tony" Atalig III is a local portrait and nature photographer from Rota, Northern Marianas Islands. He currently works at the Office of the Governor of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) as a photographer and graphic designer. Tony started photography in 2017, working as a freelance photographer. Throughout his experiences, he has learned much about the art of expression, perspective, and patience. Everyday he strives to improve and develop his skills and art to further express himself as an artist of the CNMI. His hobbies include going on adventures that involve being in touch with nature, in and out of the water.