Miyamoto-san Receives Muppets Award News

Following his recognition as a Chevalier of the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres from the French government back in 2006, Shigeru Miyamoto today picked up another award to rest on the mantelpiece with The Jim Henson Celebration Honor.

Contrary to popular belief, TVG understands the award isn't to recognise Miyamoto-san efforts as muppet-like for Wii Music, but instead bringing untold joy to families across the world with the success of both the Nintendo DS and Wii.

Established in 2005 to acknowledge organisations, individuals, or products that reflect the core values and philosophy of the late Jim Henson and the company he founded, criteria used in the evaluation process include: a commitment to creativity, innovative applications of art and technology, and inspiration of others.

Alongside Miyamoto-san's efforts the awards also recognised Wii Wright's Spore with The Jim Henson Technology Honor.  Claiming the game is "meticulously conceived and executed with infinite detail", while providing "an unprecedented level of user creativity".

"The recipients of this year's Jim Henson Honors demonstrate true creativity and commitment to innovation," said Brian Henson.  "They have raised the bar in their respective fields, from Shigeru Miyamoto's ground-breaking work fusing entertainment and technology at Nintendo, to the Center for Puppetry Arts' dedication to enriching lives through arts education, this year's honorees, who so strongly reflect the traditions of The Jim Henson Company."

"Each of this year's recipients inspired us in different ways," said Lisa Henson.  "In addition to Shigeru Miyamoto and the Center for Puppetry Arts, we also honor the visual brilliance and topicality of street artist Shepard Fairey, who tapped into a generation's profound desire for change, and the incredibly imaginative and provocative world of Spore.  Varied and vast in terms of their impact, this year's four honorees are true models of originality, innovation and ingenuity.  It is a privilege to honor their outstanding work."