Makerspace - Guam Green Growth

UOG’s Guam Green Growth, GTA partner to host Storm Smart Workshop on generator maintenance and emergency preparedness

Kyle Mandapat — Wed, 29 Jul 2026 00:38:21 +0000

UOG’s Guam Green Growth, GTA partner to host Storm Smart Workshop on generator maintenance and emergency preparedness

As Guam continues to strengthen its disaster preparedness efforts, Guam Green Growth (G3) and GTA are inviting the community to learn how to safely maintain generators and stay connected during emergencies through a Storm Smart Workshop on Saturday, Aug. 1.

The one-hour workshop will be held from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the Chamoru Village Center Court and is designed to help residents prepare for typhoon season by learning proper generator maintenance, safe operation, and practical ways to maintain communications before, during, and after severe weather events.

“We have seen so much happen during storms and communication with your loved ones is so important,” said Chelsea Paulett, GTA Community Relations Specialist. “We are always looking for ways to help our community stay connected as best as possible, even in the aftermath of a storm and in this case, in preparation for any potential storms that could pose a threat to our island.”

Hosted through the G3 Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub in partnership with GTA, the workshop aims to provide hands-on knowledge that can help families become more resilient when power outages occur.

“This year’s storm season has already been very eventful,” said G3 Circular Economy Coordinator Abby Crain. “This workshop will help to provide the community with more education and preparation that can help protect their families and businesses.”

As an added incentive, everyone who attends will be automatically entered for a chance to win an EcoFlow River 2 Power Station.

The workshop is open to the public and is intended for homeowners, renters, business owners, and anyone interested in improving their emergency preparedness. Registration is available by donation and can be done by visiting the Workshop tab at guamgreengrowth.org/makerspace or Eventbrite.

Limited spots are still available for the workshop and will be filled on a first come, first serve basis.

Guam Green Growth is facilitated by the University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant with partners including Guam NSF EPSCoR, who have helped to create Guam’s only public makerspace and innovation hub at the CHamoru Village.

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UOG’s G3 Makerspace hosts 3D printing workshop that connects goals with skills

Kyle Mandapat — Mon, 06 Oct 2025 22:27:37 +0000

Makerspace

Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub’s Shawn Garcia recently led a 3D Printing workshop at the group’s CHamoru Village location. The workshop is the latest from the G3 Makerspace that aims to bring the benefits of 3D printing and additive manufacturing to local makers and business owners.

The Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub hosts regular workshops in their space in Hagåtña which include 3D printing, weaving, textiles, sewing, laser cutting and more. Full workshop schedules can be found on guamgreengrowth.org.

UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant Research Education and Extension Fellow Napu Blas assists during the workshop at the G3 Makerspace. The 3D printing workshop welcomed participants from many age groups including students and local makers.

The University of Guam’s Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub (G3 Makerspace) recently hosted a 3D Printing Workshop, offering the community hands-on experience with cutting-edge additive manufacturing technology. The event was a part of the G3 Sustainable September lineup, a month-long series dedicated to promoting environmental stewardship and achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on the island.

The workshop, designed to introduce participants to the fundamentals of 3D modeling and prototyping, demonstrated how this technology fits into the island’s circular economy model. Attendees learned how digital design translates into physical objects, exploring the process from conceptualization to the final print. This practical knowledge empowers participants to create functional items while minimizing waste.

The session was led by Shawn Garcia, who guided attendees through the use of the G3 Makerspace’s specialized equipment. Garcia emphasized the potential of 3D printing to utilize recycled materials, aligning directly with the G3 Makerspace’s mission to transform waste streams into valuable resources. The workshop highlighted the Makerspace’s commitment to building a local green workforce capable of driving innovation.

“Events like this 3D printing workshop are really important because they bridge the gap between the sustainability goals and tangible, actionable skills,” said Garcia. “By teaching and sharing these skills, we are working to grow a community of creators who can develop local solutions for local challenges.”

The G3 Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub, located in the CHamoru Village, serves as a resource center for entrepreneurs, artisans, and students looking to integrate circular practices into their work, further strengthening Guam’s commitment to a more prosperous and sustainable future.

Monthly workshop schedules are available along with registration access at www.guamgreengrowth.org and on the G3 Makerspace’s official Instagram @guamgreengrowthmakerspace.

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G3 Makerspace kicks off plastic collection drive to refurbish school desks

Louella Losinio — Tue, 26 Aug 2025 06:04:50 +0000

Makerspace

Navigating Home fellow Justin Cruz, who is assigned to the G3 Makerspace & Innovation Hub, checks the surface of the desk prototype that he created. The G3 Makerspace is collecting recyclable plastics to support a new project aimed at refurbishing school desks.

Above is one of two refurbished desk prototypes created at the G3 Makerspace & Innovation Hub. The desktop, made from recyclable plastics, can also be used as a dry-erase board.

The G3 Makerspace & Innovation Hub team operates the machines that produce desktops from recyclable plastics #2 and #5. The photo also showcases two desk prototypes created by the G3 Makerspace for their desk refurbishment project.

The Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub (G3 Makerspace) has started a campaign to collect recyclable plastics in support of a new project to refurbish school desks. This initiative aims to provide a sustainable solution to a common problem in schools and address a significant challenge in waste management on island.

A waste characterization report commissioned by the Guam Environmental Protection Agency (Guam EPA) and the Guam Bureau of Statistics and Planning (BSP) found that plastics make up around 25% of the island’s waste that ends up in the Layon landfill. Plastics were the second most common material found, following organic waste.

The significant volume of plastic waste that goes to the landfill highlights the importance of initiatives like this desktop refurbishment project, which aims to turn discarded materials into durable, functional products for the community, according to University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant Director Austin Shelton.

“Through this project, the G3 Makerspace and Innovation Hub is helping build a waste management pipeline that transforms recyclable plastics into school desks for our students, keeping them out of the landfill and giving them new life,” Shelton said.

The initiative began earlier this year when Navigating Home fellow Justin Cruz, who is assigned to the G3 Makerspace, created a prototype for a desk using recycled plastics. Cruz revealed the desk prototype during the announcement of his fellowship, which led the G3 Makerspace to turn the idea into a full-scale project.

“A lot of our schools have poor-quality desks,” said Emily Wendte, G3 Makerspace coordinator. “The tops of the desks are made from a composite material that disintegrates, making them unsafe for kids to use. So, they end up throwing the whole desk away.”

Starting with one classroom at Maria A. Ulloa Elementary School in Dededo, the G3 Makerspace aims to complete between 30 and 50 desks, according to Wendte.

To create the new desktops, the G3 Makerspace would need two types of recyclable plastics: #2 high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and #5 polypropylene (PP). HDPE is commonly found in shampoo bottles and laundry detergent containers, while PP is used in yogurt containers and some to-go food containers.

According to Wendte, producing one desktop requires a significant amount of material. “So if we make these desktops from a 3 ft x 3 ft sheet, about three-quarters of an inch thick, that’s roughly 50 pounds of plastic for one sheet.” These plastic sheets are processed using equipment such as a shredder and an extruder machine at the G3 Makerspace & Innovation Hub.

The project has a target completion date in the first quarter of 2026. To support the effort, the G3 Makerspace is collaborating with the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant, UOG Residence Halls, and UOG Global Learning & Engagement to collect recyclable plastics.

“UOG is going to participate in recycling,” said Wendte. “So we’re going to recruit some dorm residents to collect plastics from the dorm, clean them, and prepare them for us to recycle.”

The desk refurbishment project is part of a larger research and product development effort at the G3 Makerspace aimed at finding innovative uses for recyclable plastics. Another project, in partnership with Ernesto Guades, Ph.D., assistant professor at the UOG School of Engineering, involves exploring how certain types of recyclable plastics can be prototyped into construction materials

How to Donate

Those interested in donating plastic containers can drop them off at the Plastic Resource Center of the G3 Makerspace and Innovation Hub (Unit 114) at the CHamoru Village. Donations are accepted every Wednesday from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. during Night Market. For more information, call 671-683-7715.

Before Donating Containers:

Check the recycling number. Look for the number inside the recycling symbol, usually located on the bottom or back of the container.
Only #2 (HDPE) and #5 (PP) plastics are accepted. Examples include coffee containers (except lids), laundry detergent bottles, yogurt containers, and to-go food containers.
Remove all labels and clean thoroughly. Unclean plastics won’t fuse properly and could damage the machines

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Mendiola ready to make sustainable impact after term as UOG CIS and Sea Grant intern

Kyle Mandapat — Fri, 20 Jun 2025 04:10:40 +0000

Makerspace

Zachary Mendiola, a dedicated student intern from the University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant, has spent the past five months making a significant impact at the Guam Green Growth (G3) Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub. His transformative experience at the cutting-edge facility has not only honed his skills in sustainable practices but also solidified his passion for environmental stewardship on Guam.

During his internship, Mendiola gained invaluable hands-on experience in the burgeoning field of circular economy. He delved deep into the principles of repurposing materials, witnessing firsthand how discarded items can be given new life. “Over the past five months, I have had the valuable opportunity to delve into the principles of sustainability and appreciate the significance of repurposing materials that might otherwise be discarded,” Mendiola shared in his reflection. “This experience has been truly transformative, positively influencing both my character and my outlook on sustainability.”

A key aspect of Mendiola’s work involved learning and utilizing industrial machines, including three-phase shredders and extruders that melt plastic into molds for lumber substitutes. He became proficient in the meticulous process of plastic sorting, understanding why different plastic types cannot always be fused together due to their unique properties. Beyond industrial processes, Mendiola also embraced traditional crafts like sewing and weaving, discovering diverse ways to transform waste. He highlighted plastic fusing as a particularly impactful technique: “Plastic fusing put both creativity with each design and taught us about the properties of certain plastic together.”

Mendiola also had the enriching opportunity to attend his first-ever Conference on Island Sustainability (CIS), where he connected with global innovators dedicated to a cleaner planet. While acknowledging challenges such as the tedious nature of plastic sorting and limited storage space, Mendiola’s perseverance ensured these hurdles were overcome, leading to substantial progress in managing collected plastics.

Reflecting on his journey, Mendiola expressed an overwhelming desire to continue his involvement. “If I were ever asked whether I’d return to work for G3, my answer would be a resounding yes,” he stated. “Knowing that from the start of my time in December, we’ve removed thousands upon thousands of plastic items from our ecosystems and landfills. This is a powerful reminder of the impact we’ve made. G3 has proven that, as an island community, we have the power to shape a more sustainable future—one bottle at a time. It’s innovation in action, and I’m proud to have been a part of it.”

Mendiola’s successful internship at the G3 Makerspace exemplifies the University of Guam’s commitment to providing students with practical, impactful experiences that contribute directly to the island’s sustainable development goals.

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Guam Green Growth continues support and partnership with Guam Unique Merchandise & Art program

Kyle Mandapat — Tue, 06 May 2025 05:04:01 +0000

Guam Green Growth continues support and partnership with Guam Unique Merchandise & Art program

Entrepreneurs participating in the Guam Unique Merchandise and Art (GUMA) training program received an insightful presentation today from the Guam Green Growth (G3) Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub team. The session, a long-standing component of the GUMA curriculum, highlighted the principles of the circular economy and the opportunities it presents for local artisans and businesses.

G3 has partnered with GUMA to foster the growth and sustainability of Guam’s small business sector. This ongoing collaboration reflects a shared commitment to empowering local talent and promoting environmentally conscious practices. The G3 team’s presentation focused on how GUMA members can integrate circular economy principles into their craft and business models.

“Being a part of the programming and curriculum for the GUMA program is an honor for our team,” said Abby Crain, the circular economy coordinator with G3. “Helping these small businesses grow and expand is very rewarding and we want to make sure they all know how they can incorporate the circular economy aspect into their strategies and plans.”

The presentation covered key concepts such as waste reduction, resource efficiency, upcycling, and innovative material sourcing. The G3 team showcased examples of how these principles can be applied in various art and merchandise categories, sparking ideas among the GUMA participants.

The Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub, a key initiative under the G3 program, offers resources and support to individuals and businesses looking to explore circular practices. This includes access to tools, equipment, workshops, and mentorship opportunities. The GUMA entrepreneurs were encouraged to leverage these resources as they develop their businesses.

As the GUMA training program continues, the insights shared by the G3 team are expected to play a significant role in shaping the next generation of Guam’s entrepreneurs, fostering a business landscape that values both creativity and environmental stewardship. The enduring partnership between G3 and GUMA stands as a testament to the power of collaboration in building a greener and more prosperous future for Guam.

The Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub is supported by the Office of the Governor, the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant and Guam NSF EPSCoR.

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UOG’s Guam Green Growth Makerspace celebrates CHamoru Month with cultural workshops

Kyle Mandapat — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 22:19:13 +0000

Makerspace

Lia Barcinas, local artist and weaver, will be teaching the workshop on woven hat making to be held at the G3 Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub. Barcinas returns to the Hub after a successful debut last year.

The March G3 CHamoru workshops will celebrate cultural artforms including weaving and kamyu making. Registration is open for these classes and can be found at guamgreengrowth.org.

The University of Guam’s Guam Green Growth (G3) Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub is set to host a series of workshops throughout March in celebration of CHamoru Month. These workshops offer a unique opportunity for the community to engage with traditional CHamoru crafts and practices, promoting both cultural preservation and sustainable living.

The G3 Makerspace, located at the CHamoru Village in Hagåtña, is dedicated to fostering a circular economy in Guam, with these workshops moving to blend that mission with the celebration of the island’s indigenous culture. By offering hands-on experiences with traditional crafts, the makerspace aims to connect the community with the island’s heritage while also encouraging them to think creatively about resourcefulness and sustainability.

“We are very excited for this month’s line up of workshops. Our people are always looking for resources to learn how to do the things that our ancestors did to sustain themselves over centuries, and those resources are not as available as they used to be,” said UOG CIS & Sea Grant Associate Director for Communications and Community Engagement Kyle Mandapat. “I hope people come to these workshops, learn, and help teach these practices to future generations.”

UPCOMING WORKSHOPS:

· FINA’NAGUEN TINIFOK: COCONUT HAT WEAVING WORKSHOP: This workshop will teach participants the intricate art of coconut hat weaving, a traditional CHamoru craft on Thursday, March 13 at 5pm.

· KATUPAT WEAVING: This workshop will teach attendees how to weave a katupat, the traditional mechanism for cooking rice. It will be held on Thursday, March 20 at 5pm.

· BUILD YOUR OWN KÅMYU WORKSHOP: This workshop will instruct attendees on how to build their own traditional Kåmyu, the tool used by CHamorus to grate the meat of the coconut in preparation for food or oil making. It will be held on Thursday, March 27 at 5pm.

These workshops not only provide valuable skills but also foster a deeper appreciation for CHamoru traditions. The G3 Makerspace encourages everyone to participate and learn about the rich cultural heritage of Guam.

“Weaving is a fun way to connect with our traditions. I hope that workshop participants will gain a deeper appreciation for the ingenuity and resilience of our ancestors, as well as a deeper respect for one of our island’s most valuable natural resources: I Trongkon Niyok – our coconut trees, the tree of life,” said G3 Circular Economy Coordinator Abby Crain.

For more information and to register for the workshops, please visit the Guam Green Growth website at guamgreengrowth.org.

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UOG Student Researcher presents innovative solution for vape battery waste at G3 Makerspace Science Café

Kyle Mandapat — Fri, 07 Feb 2025 05:55:43 +0000

Makerspace

UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant and Guam NSF EPSCoR student research intern Carlo Tapia presented his project during a special Science Café event held at the Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub. Tapia successfully created a power bank charger with the use of old vape batteries, providing a sustainable means of dealing with and reducing the waste.

Tapia successfully created a power bank charger that he can use for his mobile phone with the use of used vape batteries. He presented his work and results during a special Science Café event held at the Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub.

Carlo Tapia, a student intern researcher with the University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant (UOG CIS and SG), recently presented his research on converting used vape batteries into functional power bank chargers at a Guam Green Growth (G3) Makerspace Science Café event. The presentation highlighted a potential solution to the growing problem of electronic waste, particularly the disposal of vape batteries, which contain hazardous materials.

Tapia’s research explores the feasibility of repurposing the lithium-ion batteries found in disposable vapes, which often end up in landfills, posing environmental risks. His project focuses on extracting the usable components from these batteries and integrating them into a design for a portable power bank, offering a second life to materials that would otherwise be discarded.

“My angle for this is to bring a bit more awareness to vape batteries, the lithium ion, despite being disposable, can still be used for other things,” said Tapia. “I wanted to focus on power banks because here on Guam we have a lot of typhoons and this idea can help.”

The Science Café event, held at the G3 Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub, provided a platform for Tapia to share his findings with the community and engage in a discussion about sustainable solutions. Attendees included fellow students, faculty, environmental advocates, and members of the public.

“To see the work that our students are doing here at the University of Guam and the improvements the results can help develop for our community is inspiring,” said Austin Shelton Ph.D. the director of the UOG CIS and SG. “Our programs are here to support our local student researchers across their science disciplines and help them develop their work.”

The G3 Makerspace, a hub for innovation and sustainability, provides resources and equipment for individuals and organizations to develop and test sustainable solutions. The Science Café series is one of several initiatives aimed at fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship in Guam.

Tapia is also a former Guam NSF EPSCoR student researcher. He participated in the program’s Summer Math Research Experience (SMRE) and recently presented at the National Diversity in STEM conference hosted by the Society for the Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS) in Phoenix, Arizona.

According to Tapia, his research is ongoing and he hopes to further refine his design and explore the potential for scaling up the process. He expressed his gratitude to the CIS and Sea Grant for their support and mentorship.

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UOG and Mactech to hold two-day computer repair workshop

Kyle Mandapat — Mon, 06 Jan 2025 23:45:39 +0000

Makerspace

Guam Green Growth Makerspace Coordinator Emily Wendte discusses the project at a recent workshop held at the space. The venue will play host to a joint computer repair two-day workshop hosted by Guam Green Growth and Mactech Guam.

The upcoming computer repair workshop will be co-hosted by the G3 Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub and Mactech Guam. Participants will learn about basic troubleshooting, hardware upgrades, software maintenance and more.

The University of Guam’s Guam Green Growth (G3) Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub will partner with MacTech Guam to host a computer repair workshop. The event aimed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge to repair and maintain their own computers, promoting sustainability and reducing electronic waste.

The workshop will cover a range of topics, including basic troubleshooting, hardware upgrades, and software maintenance. Participants will have the opportunity to learn about common computer problems, how to diagnose them, and practical solutions to fix them. Participants will also learn about the importance of proper computer disposal and the environmental impact of electronic waste.

“We are excited to bring this first-ever workshop to the G3 Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub,” said Austin Shelton Ph.D., the director of the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant, who facilitate the G3 initiative. “Along with Mactech, we hope to reduce the amount of electronic waste on the island, and help people save some money with the skills they will learn from this class.”

The two-day workshop will be held on Friday January 24 from 3:00 to 4:30 PM, and Saturday January 25 from 9 to 10:30 AM. Tickets are $25 total for both days, and participants must attend both days of workshop.

“This is a great opportunity for everyone interested in learning computer repair skills,” said Mactech Guam head technician Jordan Lansang, who will be teaching the class. “This workshop will also help to extend the life of the computer and reduce the amount of waste from the unit. It’s a more sustainable approach, and that’s why this partnership makes so much sense.”

Along with the skills participants will leave the workshop with, they will also be given a $50 gift certificate for Mactech Guam.

G3 Makerspace Coordinator Emily Wendte is looking forward to expanding the growing themes of workshops offered at the Hub.

“We have had some really awesome workshops to promote the circular economy and artisans on the island,” explained Wendte. “We have done weaving, mosaics, glass, plastic recycling wallets, sewing, robotics, tool shop, and equipment classes, and now to move further into the sustainable tech category is a taste of where we are going in the new year.”

To stay updated and to sign up for this and upcoming workshops, visit guamgreengrowth.org and follow @guamgreengrowthmakerspace on Instagram.

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Old garments are refreshed and upcycled with screen printing workshop at Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace

Kyle Mandapat — Tue, 27 Aug 2024 06:20:45 +0000

Makerspace

Local artist, Roldy Aguero Ablao demonstrates the types of screen printing materials workshop attendees will be using.

A screen printing design is tested on repurposed paper before being put to a garment.

Annania Nauta-Kemp shows off her garment to artist Roldy Aguero Ablao after a screen printing design is affixed.

A workshop attendee ponders placement of a screen printing design on a garment.

A participant of the G3 Makerspace Screen Printing Workshop sets a screen printing stencil on a garment before adding paint.

Attendees of the G3 Circular Economy Makerspace & Innovation Hub's Screen Printing Workshop showcase their finished garments at the conclusion of the event.

A group of aspiring entrepreneurs and artists on Guam recently had the opportunity to learn the art of screen printing at the Guam Green Growth (G3) Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub.

The workshop, held earlier in August, provided participants with hands-on experience in creating custom designs on a variety of materials.

Led by an experienced business owner and screen printer, Roldy Aguerro Ablao, the workshop covered essential techniques of the process. Participants were able to experiment with different types of inks, fabrics, and substrates to create unique designs.

G3 Circular Economy Coordinator Abby Crain organized the workshop and was excited for the opportunity to work with Ablao to show attendees how to extend the life of stuff they already have.

“People got to bring in their own garments that they don’t like anymore or were going to discard and personalize them to breathe new life into them,” said Crain. “They were able to make the old new again by adding designs via screen printing to refresh and upcycle clothes.”

Crain said that the workshop went well. “It was a great workshop and was well attended. The feedback was great. Some of the same participants came back to do the second class because they enjoyed it so much.”

“This is actually my first time doing screen printing! I’m not an artist whatsoever, so that’s why these workshops are so much fun to me! I had so much fun and a lot of the pieces came out better than I was expecting. I was a little worried about the mistakes I made, but everyone has been so encouraging about accepting the mistakes we make and making the most of it,” said Laura Gumbar.

“Everything is about self-expression and everyone here at the G3 Makerspace is so welcoming, so I hope more people come out! Don’t be shy! If you don’t have anyone to go with, you will definitely end up making friends here.”

Workshops are held monthly and September will feature 3D Printing and Flower Printing Classes.

The Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub is committed to supporting local entrepreneurs and fostering a culture of innovation. By offering workshops like this, the hub provides valuable resources and opportunities for individuals to develop their skills and start their own businesses.

For more information about the Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub and upcoming workshops, please visit guamgreengrowth.org or follow the social media pages @guamgreengrowth on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

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G3 Makerspace mosaic workshop promotes ‘trash into art’

Reese Espinosa — Tue, 05 Mar 2024 05:27:12 +0000

Makerspace

Andrea Murer helps attendees of the Glass Mosaic Workshop held at the Guam Green Growth Makerspace & Innovation Hub

Mark Murer helps an attendee at the Glass Mosaic Workshop by outlining portions to cut.

Addison Ferguson, attendee of the Glass Mosaics Workshop makes final touches to her art piece

An attendee of the Glass Mosaic Workshop at the G3 Makerspace & Innovation Hub glues pieces of recycled glass to a frame made of upcycled wooden pallet.

A full-class of attendees pose with their finished art pieces with instructors from Murer Mosaics

With the idea of promoting sustainability and art, the Guam Green Growth (G3) Circular Economy Makerspace & Innovation Hub held a glass mosaic workshop during which participants transformed recycled glass and pallets into one-of-a-kind pieces. The workshop was held on Thursday, February 29, at the Chamorro Village.

At least a dozen participants worked under the tutelage of local artists Mark and Andrea Murer, a father-daughter duo working together as business owners for Mark Murer Mosaics.

Although most attendees had little to no experience in working with mosaic art, under the guidance of the Murers , everyone was able to complete their pieces before the end of the night.

G3 Circular Economy Coordinator, Abby Crain was excited to welcome the Murers to the G3 Makerspace.

Crain said, “I think what made it really successful was that it was the first time [a class taught by Murer] was being offered! A lot of people have always loved and admired his work, and this was a chance for them to finally get to participate in that.”

Eventgoers were given step-by-step instructions from the Murers, who did well to encourage and empower the participants.

Morgan Leon Guerrero one of the workshop participants, described her experience.

“The workshop was a lot of fun! I had never done something like it before, so I was a little nervous, but Mark and Andrea guided us every step of the way. It was a great way to spend time with my friends doing something creative! I am excited to participate in more workshops like this one.”

As March unfolds, Crain said the island community can look forward to more workshops curated by the G3 Makerspace. She urged the community not to miss out on opportunities.

“[The Glass Mosaic Workshop] sold out in a matter of hours, so don’t sleep on it. t. We usually post our workshop schedule at the beginning of each month. We really go out of our way to curate the classes and make sure that they have some kind of sustainability and artistic element.”

As for upcoming events, Crain said the community can look forward to workshops this month to celebrate Mes CHamoru or CHamoru Month, with the next workshop showcasing a coconut fiber artist who specializes in basket weaving.

When asked how the G3 Makerspace will engage the community in the coming year, Crain said, “We are here to inspire ways to use what we have on island and to also teach the community new skills so that they can take their artistry, their business, and their interests a little bit further.”

Follow the G3 Makerspace & Innovation Hub on social media accounts @GuamGreenGrowth and @GuamGreenGrowthMakerspace.

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