Monkeyshines in September?

In honor of Tacoma’s first Moon Festival: a special run of Monkeyshine medallions.

The Chinese Moon Festival will be today from 2:00 to 9:00 p.m. Learn more at www.TacomaChinesePark.org.

Here’s the official Monkeyshines press release:

Hand-Blown Glass Glass Medallions Already Hidden in Tacoma for Lucky Searchers

Tacoma, WA, September 29 – Monkeyshines, Tacoma’s anonymous glass art project, has hidden hand-blown glass Medallions throughout Chinese Reconciliation Park in Tacoma in celebration of the Chinese Moon Festival. Now it’s up to treasure hunters to go find them.

Monkeyshines first became a news item in 2003, when they gave away more than 200 glass balls in honor of the Chinese Year of the Monkey. Since then, they’ve hidden literally thousands of pieces of glass art each Chinese New Year. Last year, in 2011, more than 500 glass balls were hidden to celebrate the Year of the Rabbit. This year, through the generous support from the Tacoma Arts Commission, not only werethey able to hide over 500 Dragon medallions and balls, but they were able to extend the art to include other Chinese festivals.

Glass medallions emblazoned with The Rabbit, Chinese symbol for the moon, and other animals from the past 9 years of the Monkeyshine project were hidden throughout Chinese Reconciliation Park late last night by a group of bleary-eyed but enthusiastic volunteers. “It is our way of honoring the Chinese community and the rich history they have in our area,” said one participant. “It’s a community project that’s become part of Tacoma’s cultural fabric.”

The park is an act of reconciliation and inclusivity toward appreciation of thepeople of diverse legacies and interests who are part of the city as a dynamic community.And glass medallions are symbolic of the mooncake served on the Festival of the Moon, the Chinese harvest celebration. They are the ultimate beachcomber’s treasure. Everyone should own at least one.”

“Festivals like this are great community builders and part of the inclusive nature the people of Tacoma represent.” Said Ms. Monkey “We encourage the spirit of adventure and playfulness that makes Tacoma so special.”

The works are meant to be gifts for whoever finds them.

Monkeyshines representatives want to be clear that the glass gifts are in plain sight on the pathways, and are meant to be found, taken home, and shared with friends. “This is an art project that is of, by, and for our community,” said one of the lead participants, “but please take only one. Let others have some fun, too.”

Monkeyshines is not an organization. It is a slightly-crazed art project that may or may not occur again. Keep looking in the low-growing branches of trees for more information.