About the artwork

Twenty-five years ago, Tokamachi had a major blizzard, with the snow accumulating to a record of 3,910 mm. The scene from a quarter century ago was expressed using straw. The theme of this work is the rediscovery of snow, which is a representative natural phenomenon of this region, as well as kimono, a traditional handicraft, and the attraction of regional resources. In order to incorporate the beauty of hazagake (hanging harvested rice), which is still practiced in the region, straw was selected as a material to symbolize Tsumari. However, it was very difficult to collect and maintain a huge amount of straw. A kimono fashion show was held in this space.