Maebashi, Gunma Pref. – The Maebashi Biennale’s choice of opener is unorthodox to say the least.
Standing on a two-tiered structure built inside the atrium of Arts Maebashi is a group of carpenters dressed in haori coats and straw sandals, singing a kiyari (traditional workers’ chant) while rhythmically lifting a massive pillar.
The demonstration is presented by the Maebashi Tobi Traditional Culture Preservation Society and Dot Architects, with “tobi” referring to craftspeople in the construction industry who work in high places.
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