CNMI bids farewell to one of the islands’ oldest artists

The CNMI lost a cultural icon and long-time accomplished artist when Flowerpot Tuiolosega Salas breathed her last at the age of 73 on Jan. 30, 2024.

While keeping true to her Samoan culture, with a traditional Fa’a Samoa burial, it was one of the artist’s last wish to be buried on Saipan.

“… she was not only the oldest local artist here in the CNMI, but [she was also] a Taupou, the last Princess of Samoa. Her body was supposed to go back to the land where our royalties get buried but mom insisted that she stay with the people that she loved here in the CNMI,” said Alofi Tuiolosega, Salas’ daughter. “Salas was also one of the last remaining artists on island, and she communicated her love for the CNMI and Pacific Islands with her artistry.”

And although gone from this life, she’s not forgotten and her legacy lives on through the art she made, and through the lives that she impacted, including those of her husband, daughter, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and many of those whom she called family.

Her family, friends, and loved ones will be gathering this Friday at the Borja Funeral Home in Susupe to commemorate and honor her life. Public viewing will be from 7am to 9am and, after a special presentation at 9pm, the memorial service for Salas will begin at 9:30am.

Flowerpot Tuiolosega Salas