Moonlight Forest, the Los Angeles County Arboretum’s holiday lights display, is a special and beautiful experience.
The highly unique use of lush, lit-up fabric “lanterns,” created by artisans from the Sichuan province in China, is truly magical.
From a distance, the glowing works resemble 3-D stained glass. Some are animatronic like a paddling sea turtle or pandas in a bamboo grove riding a see-saw; all are vividly colored, positioned in a way that makes each of the exhibitions three distinct areas just separate enough to create a true sense of wonder.
The areas are roughly circular, comprising a nature area with animal figures, a children’s area with whimsical pieces such as happy carrots and smiling quarter moons, and an area devoted to Chinese culture.
Arguably, the standout is an enormous red and good dragon, its undulating curves reflecting in the lake it is positioned over, seeming to hover on the air, suspended from a dock above the inky water.
There are many impressive works, including a giant pagoda; a candy-themed tunnel; glowing green plant arches with hovering bees after nectar; a sea-life tunnel with floating fish.
A replica of the terra-cotta army, found in Xi’an, China is dazzling.
Up close, it’s astonishing to realize that these vivid works are shaped from illuminated fabric.
From magenta blossoms to an arch shaped like an octopus, this is a stunning show that is more than just holiday lights – it’s also culturally resonant and offers a look at a delicate art form writ large.
Moonlight Forest runs through January 6. Don’t miss! Tickets at: www.moonlightforest.eventbrite.com
- Genie Davis; Photos: Jack Burke