Terumi Saito

ShiShi - Guardian of the Voyage

This project was commissioned by the British cruise line CUNARD to celebrate the launch of their new ship, Queen Anne, curated by Double Decker London. A handwoven sculpture that re-interprets ancestral textile techniques and celebrates Cunard’s iconic lion figurehead. After delving into the Cunard digital archive images, I was drawn into the historical imagery of animals, particularly Cunard’s much-celebrated lion insignia. My research explores the concept of lions as ancient guardians and protectors. ShiShi means Lion in Japanese, and it is said to drive away misfortune and bring good fortune. By combining the symbol of the lion with a symbol of the sacred twisted rope, “Shimenawa,” I created a sculpture which symbolize protection a “guardian of the voyage” for Queen Anne. The piece was acquired as a collection and will be exhibited at Vertical Gallery on the cruise ship Queen Anne. It was also exhibited in the Group Exhibition CUNARD NOW, Contemporary Art from Queen Anne, at Cunard Building Cipriani 25 Broadway in New York.