9 September, 2004

Apocalypse now for Wearable Arts

Greens MP Mike Ward has entered this month's World of Wearable Arts (WOW) in Nelson, unleashing his message about the future of the environment.

Mr Ward's entry, 'Post-Apocalyptic Pacific Troubadour', was inspired by his vision of the planet after the battle for its resources had been fought.

"At some stage we'll be fighting it out for oil and water, consuming ourselves into oblivion," said Mr Ward, the Green Party's Arts and Culture spokesperson.

"The 'Troubadour', has survived the resource war and tells the tale of how it was won, in verse. It's a cross between Mad Max and a minstrel."

Mr Ward's entry consists of a suit with metal helmet, sunglasses, codpiece and flax cloak. The model will also hold a large staff, which incorporates a playable ukulele.

This year's WOW, held September 10-12, is the festival's last time in Nelson. From 2005, it will be held in Wellington. Mr Ward doubts Wellington can produce the vibrant festival atmosphere that Nelson does.

"If you go down to Nelson you can't miss it, everybody will be talking about it - it transforms the city," he said.

"Wellington has lots of events so you'll easily be able to ignore it. Wearable Arts may simply disappear into the capital crowd."

This will be his fourth entry in the enormously successful festival. In 2001, he won the 'Man Unleashed' section with a huge tailed creation, titled 'Sir Edmonds', a pun on Edmonds Baking Powder's slogan 'Sure to rise', which symbolises man's ability to rise to the occasion.

He says he doesn't know of any other MPs in New Zealand entering WOW.

"Most artists aren't stupid enough to go into politics," he said.

World of Wearable Arts festival Begins 8pm, September 10

ENDS

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