12 Lunar Lanterns by Erika Zhu

Catch a glimpse of our 12 beautiful lanterns as they lead you through Haymarket and up George Street. These 12 animals, each standing at an impressive 4 metres tall, are infused with a playful charm that beckons joy and character.

Designed with a simple and blobby aesthetic, each lantern lends an endearing naivety that appeals to the inner child within us all. The soft rounded outlines evoke a friendly and welcoming vibe, a gesture of open arms to the Asian Australian community in a moment of celebration for the Lunar New Year.

Under each lantern is a supporting plinth, intricately designed with unique floral patterns that blends contemporary design and timeless Chinese tapestries. Each pattern is designed to represent a meaning particular to the given Zodiac animal.

Altogether, both the lanterns and plinths feature scarlet red, a symbol of luck in Chinese culture, emerald green, a nod to the revered Jade mineral. This is combined with other contemporary colours to create a visual symphony resonating with the spirit of fun and positivity.

Come to Haymarket during the Sydney Lunar Festival and be enchanted by whimsical lanterns, each a radiant beacon of celebration.

Where to find them:

Start your walk at the corner of George Street and Barlow Street. Continue north up George Street, towards Sydney Town Hall and you'll see all 12 lunar lanterns.

Download the Sydney Culture Walks app to see the locations of all lanterns, artwork installations, banner galleries and more in the Lunar Walk.

1. Rat: Outside Barlow Community Forest, corner of George Street and Barlow Street

2. OX: Outside Barlow Community Forest, corner of George Street and Barlow Street

3. Tiger: Outside Barlow Community Forest, corner of George Street and Barlow Street

4. Rabbit: Outside Barlow Community Forest, corner of George Street and Barlow Street

5. Dragon: Outside St George Bank, 82 Ultimo Road

6. Snake: Outside St George Bank, 82 Ultimo Road

7. Horse: Outside Commonwealth Bank, 691-693 George Street

8. Ram: Outside Citymark, 683-689 George Street

9. Monkey: Outside Westpac, 740 George Street

10. Rooster: Outside Westpac, 740 George Street

11. Dog: Outside Palace Hotel, 742 George Street

12. Pig: Outside Central Baptist Church, 619 George Street

About the artist

Erika, a Sydney-based 3D artist, draws inspiration from her diverse upbringing in Hong Kong and Japan before settling in Australia. Her childhood was a blend of unique experiences, from playing SuperMario64 with her aunt to triumphing in Beyblade competitions during her primary school years.

Early passions for computer puzzle games and animated sitcoms shaped Erika's imaginative spirit, laying the foundation for her eventual journey into animation. Despite holding a law degree and receiving classical piano training, Erika chose to follow her creative instincts, immersing herself in the world of animation and illustration.

In her current work, Erika infuses playfulness, silliness, and naivety, evident in her vibrant use of colours, character design, and storylines. This artistic approach serves as a nostalgic homage to her childhood, a time she cherishes and seeks to relive through her creations.