LanternAsia

     For the past month the Norfolk Botanical Garden, where I work, has been closed to the public while a show called LaternAsia has been set up. Late in January shipping containers began arriving and were unpacked into a massive, seemingly disorderly, colorful pile in our parking lot. A week or so afterwards, Chinese nationals moved into the garden, living out of our cafe, as well as in several campers set up in the horticulture compound. The first things they built were a giant tented workshop in the parking lot, and a cooking tent; they brought their own chef too. Next they made order out of that chaotic pile, and turned silk, wire, wood, steel, and glue into something very special. Working from sunup to sundown, in rain, cold, and even snow, it was amazing watching how they transformed the garden. I would leave work in the afternoon at my normal 3:30, and by the next morning a temple would have been constructed or a menagerie would show up where the day before was just turf. I was able to enjoy the show on Thursday when it was opened just for employees, their families, and friends. Today the show opens to the general public, and the garden itself reopens as well. I must say I have missed seeing our guests in the garden, but after watching the construction process, I can understand why we had to temporarily close. Once people see the show, I also hope they will agree the wait was worth it.

     I think the most impressive structure is the Porcelain Pagoda, made from tens of thousands porcelain spoons, bowls, cups, saucers, and plates, all of which were individually attached by hand to pieces of armature. These armatures were then craned into place creating a complete structure that is 3-4 stories tall.

     It is hard to tell from the photo, but this dragon is over 200' long and the head is over 20' tall.

     LanternAsia runs through the end of April, and unlike our holiday light show it is a walk-through. Speaking of walking, my Winter Walk-Off is in progress now, and ends on 3/19 at midnight. I am sure some of you would love to take a walk and clear your head. Take your camera with you; I would appreciate more entries.

(If you are interested, there are additional LanternAsia photos on my Flickr page.)