Making lanterns is a well-practiced tradition in Chinese culture.
Lanterns are made to signify and commemorate the Chinese New Year. These pieces of art started from humble beginnings with basic shapes and materials. In the modern day, artists and curators have elevated this practice by creating magnificent structures of many shapes and sizes. A company called Tianyu Arts & Culture, Inc. has brought their display of elaborate and memorable Chinese lanterns to Albuquerque, but it doesn’t stop there.
This group also brings along performers, traditional Chinese handicrafts and a unique insight into Chinese culture that is rarely seen in New Mexico.
The event runs for six weeks from Friday, Oct. 6 through Sunday, Nov. 12 at Expo New Mexico. The festival is held nightly starting from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. with performances every night. Tickets are available online or at the door, and college student discounts are available on Mondays for $12.
Text by Autumn King
Images by Autumn King and Jenny Liang
