Reverence for nature

Christine Choe, born in Kun San, South Korea, drew posters and billboards for school and church events as a child. She won many art competitions while she was in middle and high school. Although she was not able to support herself as an artist as an adult, she continued to pursue her love of art.

The beauty and hospitality of Guam and her friendships with Guam artists got her creating again once she relocated to the island fourteen years ago. Choe started her art career on Guam through an invitation by local artist and friend, Greg Flores, to participate in a traveling exhibition of local artists.

It was at these art exhibitions that she met University of Guam professor of art Lewis Rifkowitz who suggested that she enroll in some of his art classes, particularly ceramics and sculpture. Since that time Choe has sculpted numerous works. Her first-ever sculpture, that of a carabao, is on display at the Guam Council on the Arts and Humanities Agency (CAHA) Gallery in Harmon.

Choe strives to depict the culture of the island. Whether she is painting a seascape or sculpting a carabao, there is a preeminent reverence for the peace and beauty of nature that is reflected in her work. She constantly challenges herself by incorporating personal observations, to create a unique style.

In 2004 she participated in the 23rd Flame Tree Arts Festival in Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands, and the 9th Festival of Pacific Arts held in Koror, Republic of Belau. In 2005 her sculpture was chosen for the “Creative Hands” exhibition, a juried show at the University of Guam’s Isla Center for the Arts. She also participated in two Nissan-Infinity art shows.

Choe is working on a grant from the CAHA to sculpt a number of Guam’s endangered species. Choe is also working to create works which she donates to charity auctions including the Gift of Life Charity Auction and KPRG’s International Postcard-Art Auction.