The "Straw Art Festival", known for its huge art made from rice straw, was held in Niigata City for the first time in two years, and locals are visiting to see the work praying for the end of the new coronavirus.
This event has been held every year since 2008 in collaboration with the art university in Tokyo in an attempt to convey the charm of Nishikan Ward, Niigata City, where rice production is popular, using rice straw. It was canceled for the first time due to the influence of.
In order to prevent infection, locals are in charge of production based on the design proposed by the students, and at the venue, Uwasekigata Park, three works with the theme of "lucky things" wishing for the end of the virus. Was exhibited.
Of these, the work in the shape of the youkai "Amabie", which is said to contain the plague, has a powerful size of about 3 meters in height, and the rounded eyes are designed to be familiar.
In addition, "Triangle Tatsuma", which is a folk craft of Niigata and has the meaning of disease-free breathing, and "Phoenix", which is said to bring peace to people, were also exhibited, and the locals who visited took pictures. ..
A 70-year-old man in the city who comes to see the works every year said, "I feel lonely with fewer works than usual, but I hope Corona will end and the event will be crowded next year."
In addition, the person in charge at the Nishikan Ward office said, "I would like you to come and take measures against infection."
This "Straw Art Festival" is held until October 31st.