GTA and OBRA Unveil Barrigada Mural Promoting School Zone Safety and Community Pride

(Barrigada, Guam) Tuesday, December 10, 2024 –GTA proudly announces the completion of a community mural in the village of Barrigada, located directly across from Untalan Middle School. Created in partnership with local artist collective OBRA, this mural embodies the importance of safety in school zones, encouraging drivers to slow down and remain vigilant as they pass through this area.

OBRA is a non-profit organization that encourages and promotes arts for the benefit of the community. It teaches and fosters among children, and people of all ages, sexes, and nationalities, their families, and friends, a closer bond and camaraderie, along with the fundamentals and niceties of the arts.

The concept of the mural was submitted by Olivia Newman, Novem Gimoto, and Marcus Villaverde. It highlights the mascot of the school and calls the attention of motorists passing by. This artwork serves as both an inspiration and a point of pride for OBRA members. It represents their hard work, creativity, and the lifelong passion for the arts that they strive to cultivate within the group.

This mural is part of the GTA Village Mural Project, an ongoing community initiative to bring inspiring artwork to Guam’s villages. To date, GTA has completed six murals across the island, each reflecting a message that supports and uplifts local communities. In Barrigada, the mural’s message centers on fostering a safe environment for the students, known as the Untalan Wildcats, who are cherished members of the community.

“We’re grateful to GTA and OBRA for this meaningful addition to our village,” said Mayor June Blas of Barrigada. “This mural serves as a reminder to protect our students and foster a safe, united community.”

“Our goal with this mural is to communicate the significance of school zone safety in a way that resonates with the community,” said Michele Catahay Perez, Director of Community Relations at GTA. “OBRA has created an inspiring artwork that not only beautifies the area but serves as a reminder to prioritize the safety of our students. This project aligns with our commitment to community well-being and our ongoing efforts to make a positive impact through GTA Gives initiatives.”

“Our team was honored to create this mural for Barrigada,” said Olivia Newman, President of OBRA. “We hope that the Wildcats and the whole community feel a sense of pride and connection to this artwork, as it serves to encourage everyone to watch out for each other, especially in places where our youth are most vulnerable.”

The GTA Village Mural Project is a testament to GTA’s dedication to community enrichment and Guam’s local art scene. As a longstanding supporter of local arts and safety initiatives, GTA continues to invest in programs that celebrate the island’s unique culture and prioritize public welfare.

Captions:

Photo 1: Novem Gimoto, OBRA member and local artist, stands in front the GTA x OBRA Village Mural

Photo 2: Yeon Sook Park, Marcus Villaverde, and Olivia Newman pictured at GTA x OBRA Village Mural