The Almost Heaven BBQ Bash is thrilled to feature Lia Chan, a well-known builder in the LEGO fan community, recognized for creating highly realistic custom models, especially those inspired by space exploration. Chan will be displaying some of her intricate NASA models at the first LEGO Brick Bash in Stockert Gym (free admission) in downtown Buckhannon the weekend of June 18-20, where she’ll be available to answer questions, take photos and serve as one of the judges for the LEGO building contest.
As a professional LEGO artist, Chan focuses on detailed recreations of real-world NASA structures such as the International Space Station, Kennedy Space Center Launch Complex 39A and 39B and NASA-related aircraft. Her work stands out for its accuracy, often reflecting real proportions and engineering details rather than simplified designs. One of the most distinctive aspects of Chan’s builds is her ability to make static LEGO models appear dynamic. She uses techniques like lighting, transparent pieces and careful staging to simulate liftoff, engine exhaust and other launch effects. Combined with thoughtful photography — sometimes taken outdoors — her creations can look almost identical to real aerospace images at first glance.
Beyond individual models, Chan often builds entire systems and environments. Her launch pad displays, for example, include not just the spacecraft but also launch tower, transport vehicles and surrounding infrastructure. Some of these projects take hundreds of hours to complete and have been showcased at major LEGO conventions such as BrickUniverse, where they are frequent highlights of the exhibition. Her work has also been displayed at several NASA Visitor Centers, aviation and science museums and has been featured by prominent LEGO fan media outlets, further cementing her status in the community.
In addition to her technical skill, Chan’s work carries an educational and inspirational dimension. By recreating complex space systems in LEGO form, she helps make science and engineering more accessible and engaging to a broad audience. Her models invite viewers to explore how real spacecraft function while also demonstrating what is possible with creativity and dedication. Chan stands out as a leading LEGO artist whose work transcends traditional building. Through meticulous detail, innovative techniques and a clear passion for space exploration, she has turned LEGO bricks into a medium for storytelling, education and awe-inspiring realism.
Chan grew up and lived most of her life in Texas before moving to Baton Rouge, Louisiana about a year ago. Though she’s not directly affiliated with NASA, her love for science and the space program fueled her passion for building LEGO creations, debuting in her first major trade show in 2015 before diving into LEGO building full time in 2020. Since Chan travels the U.S. extensively displaying her creations throughout the year, attendees won’t want to miss this rare and free opportunity to meet and interact with her at this year’s Almost Heaven BBQ Bash the weekend of June 18-20 in downtown Buckhannon.
For more information, follow the Almost Heaven BBQ Bash Facebook page for event announcements and updates. Make plans to enjoy great food and lots of free activities, entertainment and displays at this year’s BBQ Bash the weekend of June 18-20 in downtown Buckhannon.
