STUST USR project team "Zuoyao Shansian—Value Added Creative Life" participated in the 2025 Zuozhen Lantern Festival, a collaborative effort between the Zuozhen District Office and local organizations. On January 12, the festival officially commenced with a grand lighting ceremony on Zuozhen Old Street, marking the beginning of the Year of the Snake celebrations. Themed "Starry Sky and Milky Way," this year’s lantern festival features four carefully curated exhibition areas. The displays include intricate works crafted by artists and co-created with local elders, highlighting the region's bamboo industry and century-old cultural heritage. Additionally, the festival integrates modern technology with traditional artistry, offering a captivating visual experience that blends contemporary creativity with deep local sentiment.

【A group photo by the main lanterns of Zuozhen Lantern Festival (Photo provided by Zuo Da Studio)】

One of the festival’s standout exhibits, "Ten Auspicious Zodiac Signs," was created by students from the Department of Visual Communication Design, STUST, under the guidance of Prof. Ding-jun Tong. Applying principles of composition and design, the students crafted ten dynamic, three-dimensional lanterns representing the Chinese zodiac. These lanterns preserve traditional craftsmanship while incorporating fresh, imaginative elements. With their bright colors, soft lighting, and expressive gestures, each zodiac lantern conveys auspicious wishes for the New Year, bringing good luck, happiness, and fulfillment to all.

【12 Chinese Zodiac Lanterns (Photo courtesy: Zuo Da Studio)】

Another key exhibit, "Rainbow Sunlight Star Wishing Lantern," was created by a student team led by Prof. Da-chi Liu from the Department of Creative Product Design, STUST, in collaboration with local elders from Tongshin Heyi School and Zuozhong Community. This exhibit embodies the creativity of the student team and the wisdom of the local community. The elders contributed by crafting a string of 12 glowing lights and a bamboo windmill adorned with flowers—symbols of life's continuous renewal. The exhibit showcases the resilience and flexibility of bamboo while incorporating electronic lighting and technological visual effects. Visitors are encouraged to come to Zuozhen Old Street and light up these meaningful lanterns.

【Rainbow Sunlight Star Wishing Lantern (Photo provided by Zuo Da Studio)】

This year the Lantern Festival also continues the enchanting ambiance of the "Tsaoshan Swinging Starlight" lighting event, held on January 3. The 12 starlight wishing lanterns from that event have been seamlessly integrated into the festival’s exhibition area. Designed by students and artists from STUST, the "Swinging Starlight Wishing Lantern" is crafted from clay and bamboo, blending traditional bamboo weaving techniques with modern electronic technology. Each lantern represents blessings from the seven stars, symbolizing prosperity in the coming year. The Starlight Light District also features imagery of the grass owl, paying homage to Zuozhen’s natural ecology and fostering a deeper connection between the land and local culture.

【Swinging Starlight Wishing Lantern (Photo provided by Zuo Da Studio)】

Since its opening, the Zuozhen Lantern Festival has drawn a large number of visitors. Ji-ji Yu, Chief of Zuozhen District, remarked that the festival is not just an artistic showcase but also a testament to the collaborative spirit between the community and the university. The chief said that these creations aim to highlight the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of Zuozhen while bringing hope and blessings for the Year of the Snake.

Project Team Leader Meng-ling Lai emphasized that STUST has long been committed to integrating academic expertise with local development through its USR initiatives. She said that through this lantern festival, students can unleash their creativity, deepen their appreciation of local culture, and give back to society through art. It is delightful to see these works become a highlight of the festival, and I look forward to more collaborations with local communities to explore new possibilities for regional revitalization."

2025 Zuozhen Lantern Festival:

2025 Zuozhen Lantern Festival:

Lighting time: 17:00-21:00

Location: Zhecheng Park, Zuozhen

We sincerely invite all the public to participate, experience the artistic charm and natural beauty of Zuozhen and Tsaoshan, and light up your New Year wishes!