Think!Chinatown is proud to present Edward Cheng's captivating black-and-white film photography in his solo exhibition, "Walking with Lions and Other Chinatown New Year Traditions." Over the course of 20 years with his 35mm and medium format cameras, Cheng documents the unique blend of NYC Chinatown-specific rituals mixed in with historic traditions, showcasing the cultural resiliency of a diasporic community building home in America. The exhibition highlights the dynamic crowds, the parades and processions, as well as the serene moments with monks and practitioners in temples, and glimpses at lion dance training. From the mesmerizing dragon and unicorn dancers to the intricacies of traditional costuming, and the radiant pageant winners, Cheng's lens captures the incredible details that make the Lunar New Year a truly unique and culturally significant event.

“Walking with Lions and Other Chinatown New Year Traditions” will run from January 17 to February 25, 2024, at Think!Chinatown's Studio at 1 Pike St, 10002 NYC. 

This exhibition was made possible with curatorial support from Sophia Ma. For his work on this project, Edward Cheng was awarded the New York State Council on the Arts, Visual Arts grant.