Chinatown Celebrates the Year of the Fire Horse with Festive Activities

In the heart of New York City, artist Sarula Bao has captured the spirit of the Lunar New Year with an innovative take on traditional Chinese folk art. During the recent festivities marking the Year of the Horse, Bao proudly displayed a handcrafted puppet on Chinatown’s Mott Street, where vibrant celebrations unfolded under the mild winter temperatures.

Sarula Bao, an illustrator and educator, was chosen for Think!Chinatown’s Lantern Residency. Through this initiative, artists are encouraged to reinterpret the classic paper lantern integral to Lunar New Year celebrations. Bao chose to channel the intricate craft of “bu zha,” an embroidery art form rooted in the Bai ethnic group from China’s Yunnan province, known for small silk animal designs symbolizing protection and fortune.

Bao’s project resulted in “Xiao Baoma,” a large-scale, vibrant horse puppet adorned with symbols of prosperity like mandarins, fish, and ancient currency motifs. Boa also infused personal emblems signifying happiness, such as stars and music notes, reflecting her own cultural journey.

The execution of this artwork not only highlights Bao’s research-driven practice but also pays homage to her role as the director of Endless Editions. Her work will be featured again at upcoming Lunar New Year celebrations in the city, offering both locals and visitors a chance to experience a blend of tradition and modern artistry.