By Ron Rocky Coloma
Dawn Lees Reyes stands in the middle of the Guam Museum’s exhibit hall, eyes sweeping over her pieces. The room hums with quiet admiration as visitors lean in, examining the vibrant textures and intricate details of her work. She smiles—this is home.
For Reyes, “Rooted” is more than just an exhibit. It’s a reflection of decades spent forging deep connections to the island, its culture and its people. The exhibit, which brings together the works of Reyes, Monica Baza, Donna Birn and Judy Flores, explores themes of identity and connection. And for Reyes, those themes run deep.
“For many years my work has been focused on three prevailing themes: the feminine, nature and culture,” Reyes said. “No matter where I have lived, these three themes seem to emerge most often.”
Her journey to Guam began more than 30 years ago, a decision she made with her CHamoru husband, Ed Reyes.
“I used to jokingly call it a survival tactic,” she said, referring to her efforts to understand the culture. But over time, that effort turned into something more profound.
“I think I was destined to live here. By understanding how the CHamoru people think and feel, I was preparing myself to be a contributing member of the Guam community,” Reyes said.
That sentiment is woven into every piece she presents in “Rooted.” The exhibit features fifteen of her works, spanning acrylic, pastels, silk paintings, mixed media and marble sculptures. Each tells a story - of Guam’s legends, of nature, of blending cultures.
“Each piece is either about Guam’s legends, about my relationship to nature, or about the marrying of my culture with that of Guam, and sometimes a combination of these,” Reyes said.
Selecting works for the exhibit was an emotional process. “I would like most of all for people to see the work as a reflection of my love and appreciation for this island and for all the amazing experiences I have had here,” Reyes said. “My background is European, and my education can be described as classical. But my island experience has changed me—for the better.”
The influence of Guam extends beyond her artwork. It shapes her creative process, too. “My overall creative process is enhanced by being deeply rooted to Guam through the caring and supportive community. I have been relatively successful as an artist since moving here, and I think it’s because of the support and encouragement that has been provided me over the years.”
Collaboration plays a vital role in “Rooted.” Reyes worked alongside Monica Baza, Donna Birn and Judy Flores, each of whom brought their own artistic voice to the exhibit. “We artists are often an isolated group,” she said. “We four, in particular, work alone in our respective art spaces. What is great about this group of women is their commitment to their craft and their willingness to share their work and themselves with the community.”
There’s something powerful about seeing their works displayed together. “What I love about group shows is that your work hangs together, creating another narrative, an important conversation, a stronger voice than what can be had otherwise. We learn from each other by seeing our work in a different environment and context,” Reyes said.
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