On August 1st, the Hirosaki Neputa Lovers' Association, a Neputa group made up of young Neputa painters, will participate in the joint operation of the Hirosaki Neputa Festival for the first time.

The group was established in 2020 by artists in their 20s and 30s who are active mainly in Hirosaki. It will be the first joint operation this year, starting with activities amid the spread of the new coronavirus.

Currently there are about 20 members. Riku Tonozaki, the leader of the group, said, "The 'Neputa idiots' who would spend an hour or two looking at a single Neputa painting started to convey the appeal of Neputa paintings through their own commitment. I was able to participate in this year's joint operation with the support that made use of it."

The Neputa picture (mirror picture) on the front of the Neputa is "Sangokushi Choun Kikugi wo Tsukikorosuzu", and the send-off picture is "Gakume". Each Neputa painter is in charge of the front Neputa. The framework of the Neputa follows the shape that was standard in the Showa period and is particular about the shape that makes the Neputa paintings look beautiful, so there is no elevator.

20-watt incandescent bulbs are used to make the Neputa paintings stand out, and the front Neputa is lit with candles. “I get so caught up in the story of Neputa that I sometimes don't make progress,” said Mr. Tozaki with a wry smile. "Three times of joint operation, we are preparing a surprise for Neputa painters. We want you to experience the beauty of Neputa paintings by enlivening the 300th anniversary of the Neputa Festival."

The Hirosaki Nepta Fan Club will participate in the joint service on August 1st, 6th and 7th.