Since Lego was invented in 1932, these little plastic bricks have been popular among people all over the world no matter their age. To most people, Legos simply bring childlike play and fun, while to others the blocks are an omnipotent tool that unlocks endless achievements.
Andy Hung, the first Chinese to be rewarded the Lego Certified Professional title and the Guinness World Record holder for having built “the biggest block ship in the world,” has brought several marvelous works made of a cumulative five million Lego blocks to Yitian Holiday Plaza, offering visitors a creative show combined with Chinese cultural symbols.
A Forbidden City formed with Lego blocks. Photos courtesy of the organizer.
In the exhibition, visitors will have a chance to overlook a Forbidden City formed with 500,000 blocks that took 12 weeks to make. It’s one of the highlights in the show as it reproduces every detail, down to the bronze beasts on the top of the palace roofs and cauldrons on the stairs, revealing the beauty and artistry in Chinese architecture.
The most citizen-related work may be a Beijing quadrangle courtyard (“siheyuan”). Hung and his team add some teasing elements to the work, such as a cat walking on the roof, a dog on a pedicab and a teddy bear in a girl’s hand. All these give viewers an approachable life atmosphere.
Some Fujian "tulou" formed with Lego blocks.
A scene of the Bund in Shanghai and some Fujian "tulou" (traditional Hakka residences that are round in shape) also appear in the exhibition. There are several Lego figures featuring the makeup of Beijing opera as well as the Terracotta Warriors. Moreover, children can play in the “Lego blocks pool” to make their own creations.
In this parallel Lego world, the combination of Lego and Chinese elements is harmonious beyond the imagination. Lego is not just a toy brand but encapsulates a unique spirit for realizing more possibilities in life.
Scan the QR code to buy tickets:
Dates: Until Feb. 12
Hours: 10 a.m.-10 p.m. (last entry is at 9 p.m.)
Tickets: 89 yuan for one person, 169 yuan for two persons, 249 yuan for three persons
Venue: West meadow, B2/F, Yitian Holiday Plaza, Nanshan District (南山区益田假日广场B2层西端草坪)
Metro: Line 1 or 2 to Window of the World Station (世界之窗站), Exit A