In Japanese cuisine, sushi is a food made of vinegared rice, usually topped with other ingredients including fish (cooked or uncooked) and vegetables. The original word in Japanese means 'snack' and refers to the rice, but not fish or other toppings.
In 2007 the Auckland Festival of Photography gave members of the Japanese community involved in making sushi in Auckland's CBD the use of disposable cameras. For the purpose of the project 'sushi' was used to define the entire sushi eating experience, from its preparation and consumption to restaurant life, culture, and practice. It was a project that saw Japanese-made disposable cameras used by Japanese Aucklanders. They capture the sushi-making process. from their perspective and show how their work - delivering sushi to the hungry workers, residents and visitors to the CBD - defines an ancient ritual and cultural tradition that is now an international food icon.
This exhibition presents the best photos taken by workers at several central restaurants and reflects how Japanese traditions have progressed from the use of a samurai sword to a sushi chef's knife.
The exhibition is supported by Creative Communities and the NZ Japan Exchange Programme. Thanks to: Kura, Masato, Ariake, the $3 Shop, Daikoku, Ichiban, Made in Nippon, Mentatz, Kiraku, The Don, Tanya Romanuk, Izumi, and Alicia Kake.
