Art celebrates 30 years of Taiji ties

An exquisite masterpiece celebrating the 30-year relationship between Broome and its sister city Taiji was unveiled at the Broome Shire Council chambers last week.

The unique sculpture, titled Ashioto, or Sound of Footsteps, was commissioned by the shire as a gift to Taiji for its upcoming visit.

Created by artist Glenn Tormey, the piece was fashioned with aged jarrah wood floorboards salvaged from a Japanese divers’ quarters.

At first glance, the smooth curves of the sculpture depict a vivid image of a sail in flight, held together with 28 hand-bronzed dome head bolts.

From a different angle, the dark jarrah wood is contrasted with an internal view of striking pearl shell suspended in motion.

The unveiling of the work commanded applause from councillors and guests, including former pearl diver Akira Masuda.

Tormey said he was delighted to be chosen to create the piece.

“This piece is very special and represents a special occasion in Broome’s history,” he said.

Tormey said he felt a certain level of pressure to create a gift that captured the historical ties of Broome and Taiji, but he was happy with the final product.

Next month, delegates from the shire and community members including councillors Eunice Yu and Peter Matsumoto, and Mr Masuda will travel to Japan to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the sister city partnership between Broome and Taiji.

The delegation will spend three days in Taiji which will include attending the opening of the 30-year anniversary exhibition at the Eitaro Ishigaki memorial museum, visiting Taiji Junior High School and exploring the Nachi waterfalls and temples.

Shire president Graeme Campbell said the week-long trip was a great opportunity to celebrate the milestone.

“I’m looking forward to renewing the partnership and strengthening the friendship,” he said.

“I will also be renewing acquaintances with people I met there on previous visits.”