Chantelle Rytter founded the Atlanta Beltline Lantern Parade in 2010, along with the Krewe of the Grateful Gluttons.

Is this your first time speaking at a TEDx event? What are your thoughts on presenting on October 17?
Yes, it is my first time! I think it is a terrific gift to speak at TEDx, and it happens to fall on my birthday.

August 2014 Lantern making workshop at Lantern House

Our theme this year implies the discovery of something that is before unseen. Tell us about a pure, unexpected change in your life that was the illumination of a revelation.
10,000 people showed up for the BeltLine Lantern Parade last year! Up from 1250! I didn’t believe that until I saw the video. I have always felt that there is a universal desire for creative play. I am now certain.

At the end of the day, what is it about your work that keeps you going?
I am honored to do my work. I love it. At the end of the day, I kick back in my hammock and beam gratitude. I wrote a little song I sing then:
When its 5:55, then you know you’ve arrived,
Your good work is done and it’s lookin’ so fine.
Time to crack a beer and look at the sky
Oh my, it’s 5:55!
(There’s 2:22, 3:33, and 4:44 verses, too. I don’t have a set schedule.)

What is your passion?
Art + civic kinship.

What keeps you centered in this crazy world?
Love. My friends, my family, my art, my bicycle, and my cat.

What is your motto?
To work is human, to play is divine.

What are three words to best describe you?
More Play Time