Lanterns Come to Life!

Have you ever wondered about the legends and myths you heard while growing up? Some of those stories come from an ancient path called the Silk Road, a network of trade routes connecting east and west that acted as an interactive cultural hub between various countries.
This year at the Coca-Cola Coliseum, the CNE partners with Shadow Factory to bring new life to the Legends of the Silk Road Come to Light exhibit through Augmented Reality.
AR meets traditional Chinese Lanterns in this unique installation taking place at the Canadian National Exhibition. Integrating technology and traditional art in an accessible and innovative approach, the exhibit allows audiences to be immersed in timeless stories.
In partnership with DDM, Legends of the Silk Road Come to Life! is a unique art installation originally commissioned for the 2018 Canadian National Exhibition. Based on mythologies along the ancient Silk Road, the lanterns’ journey began in Zigong City in China’s Sichuan province. These designs were created during the Canada-China tourism year by 90 artists, using 4,000 metres of synthetic silk and 55 metres of steel. Carefully packed into eight shipping containers, they travelled more than 11,000 km from China to Toronto!
17 unique stories from countries along the ancient Silk Road were interpreted by artisans and brought into existence through bright and colourful life-sized lanterns. Touted as one of the largest indoor Chinese lanterns’ exhibitions, Legends of the Silk Road Come to Light wowed audiences in its 2018 debut. CNE guests were impressed by its grand scale as they moved through the luminous maze, every corner greeting them with familiar stories heard from childhood.
Using the Lanterns Come to Life! app, users will be able to see 15 lanterns animate before their eyes. By holding their smart devices in front of a lantern marker, you can engage with the Silk Road legends by seeing the lanterns reveal compelling tales.
These include:
· Jack climbing a magic beanstalk. Watch out for the Giant at the top!
· Aladdin meeting a Genie who grants three wishes. What wishes will you ask of the Genie?
· Exotic and mythical animal encounters. Learn how the giraffe got its looong neck.
Moving towards the next lantern, new markers appear to guide you. Watch as your mobile device capture magical moments such as maps unfolding, and a genie emerging from the lamp. Map out your own adventure here at the CNE!
The CNE is thrilled to bring the lanterns back to life and allow guests to experience this exhibit in a new and exciting way!
Share your experience by snapping a photo and uploading it on social media! Don’t forget to tag the CNE using @letsgototheex.
One of the top 5 agricultural fairs in North America, the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) is Canada’s largest community event.
Founded in 1879 as the Toronto Industrial Exhibition, the CNE is a not-for-profit organization that has enjoyed a distinguished history as a national showcase. People came to engage in a collective community celebration and experience the latest innovations in technology and commercial products, and to enjoy performances by popular entertainers.
Although the CNE has changed significantly over the years, it continues to be one of Ontario’s great annual traditions and an event that offers substantial entertainment value for money.
Taking place over the 18 days leading up to and including Labour Day, it is affectionately embraced as an annual end-of-summer ritual by more than 1.5 million visitors who reflect the rich diversity of Toronto and the region.
Notes:
- This app is optimized for any smart device.
- It is recommended to download this app before entering the exhibit. Compatibility is not guaranteed for devices that are connected only to Wi-Fi networks.
- The CNE is not liable for any data charges you may incur while downloading or using this app.
Compatibility information may change at any time.