WOW will disappear in the crowd

Green MP Mike Ward is deeply disappointed Nelson will lose the World of Wearable Arts (WOW) to Wellington.

Nelson-based Mr Ward is a previous prizewinner in the event and is entering again this year.

"I've known the organisers for a very long time and consider them friends, but I believe the desire to get bigger has blinded them to the fact Nelson itself contributes to the Wearable Art experience," said Mr Ward, the Greens Arts and Culture Spokesperson.

"Many of the best entries come from Nelson and visiting Nelson is one of the principle reasons people come to the show.

"When WOW is on in Nelson, you can't miss it walking down Trafalgar Street, it creates a distinct atmosphere in town.

"Whereas, Wellington has lots of events, walking down Lambton Quay or Cuba St you'll easily be able to ignore it because there's lots of other things on, Wearable Arts will simply disappear in the capital crowd.

"Bigger is not necessarily better. WOW in Wellington will be an event for the international elite, as both artists and audience, not ordinary New Zealanders. One can only hope that another uplifting community-based experience will arise in Nelson to take its place," said Mr Ward.

© Scoop Media