During my time in Japan, I met Shinji Hayashi, a talented puppeteer from Nagoya whose artistry is intertwined with the history of his homeland. Often seen walking the streets of Kyoto with a small elephant, his work is a blend of storytelling and cultural wisdom. After a mesmerizing performance at Nagoya Station with an elephant marionette, he gifted me a blue bird named Aoi, a three-legged Yatagarasu, symbolizing the connection between heaven, earth, and humanity.
Through Instagram, Shinji continues to share his knowledge and guidance, enriching my puppetry and deepening our connection despite the physical distance. Aoi’s story, shaped by his wisdom and my growing experience, continues to evolve, demonstrating the unique power of modern technology to bridge worlds and nurture artistic relationships.
In my practice, I have the privilege of sharing a studio space with children of all ages and their teachers in a social daycare setting. It’s here that Aoi’s story really comes to life, as the children and teachers add their own unique ideas and interpretations. Through storytelling, art, and performance, we build a shared narrative that highlights the connections between us all.
