Leo Tang's gigantic, quirky, retro lanterns in Tsim Sha Tsui
Leo Tang. Lights up our lives. This Mid-Autumn Festival, Hong Kong's tourism department has splashed out on HK$5 million worth of festivities, including lantern carnivals and displays in districts all over the territory.
One of the centerpieces is the Tsim Sha Tsui harborfront lantern exhibition, called "The Rhapsody of Hong Kong Memories," showing typical scenes from 1960s Hong Kong rendered in the form of oversized lanterns.
Hong Kong designer Leo Tang, who has become the go-to guy for large light installations in recent years, came up with the nostalgic scenes to appeal to the retro-crazy sentiments of Hong Kong people.
"Traditional lantern fairs are still relevant," says Tang. "But large scale lantern shows should have modern, quirky elements in it to attract younger people to attend."
Quirky elements such as the gigantic spittoon-shaped lantern which looms over visitors. Or the revolving lantern in the form of a cup of milk tea. "That's my favorite," says Tang. "I have made traditional Chinese revolving lanterns before, but this is the first time that I have incorporated movable parts in my modern-style lanterns."
"The Rhapsody of Hong Kong Memories" is on display until October 17. Check out our photo gallery above for a taste of the show.
