IAN MORTIMER ON BEHALF OF MIYAZU

Nelson’s sister city Miyazu has an amazing sand bar called Amanohashidate, noted as one of Japan's top three most scenic sites. The name means ‘the bridge to heaven’ from an ancient Shinto creation myth where the gods of creation built a bridge from their home in the heavens – this fell to earth after misuse and over time became the sandbar. This installation is a shadow puppet story based on this myth, performed in a large light box. The work incorporates bamboo fabric, music and lanterns and is backed by Taiko drumming and Kendo performers.

The Nelson Miyazu link is 40 years old and is one of New Zealand's strongest and oldest sister city relationships.