Collaborated with Kay Tu
For Sai Kung Hoi Arts Festival 2024
Completed
Type: Art Installation / Performance Stage / Pavilion
Curator: One Bite Design Studio
Contractor: Hattrick Creative
Special thanks to: Plasticwood Studio, Contact Lens Easy Co Ltd
Materials: Stainless Steel, Recycled Plastic
High Island (Leung Shuen Wan) was once called the “Dragon Boat Bay”. During the Qing Dynasty, residents transported supplies using long boats that resembled traditional dragon boats, which influenced the area’s deep cultural connection to the dragon motif. This cultural significance is reflected in the lyrics of a fishermen’s song: “The dragon boat’s drum, a single beat resonates with three islands; paddling the dragon boat, it flies to the sky”. The artwork “Rhythm of the Dragon” uses dragon as the theme which symbolises the culture and history of High Island.
With its unique geographical advantages, High Island has long served as a marina and supply port for fishermen. It has fostered a mutually supportive community between the Hakka people living on land and the Tanka people residing on water, establishing a self-sufficient society. The colours of the dragon scales are extracted from the representative buildings of each village community on High Island, symbolising unity among the villages.
Set on a beach where land and water converge, the installation responds to environmental changes. Adapting to the site’s tidal changes, the dragon’s tail is submerged during high tide and revealed at low tide. The dragon scales on the main body are formed with eco-friendly recycled plastic, gently resonating with wind movements in a graceful rhythm. Reflecting the ever-changing natural environment, this installation evolves continuously and offers captivating experiences.
To engage with the community, the project invites local residents to co-create and paint the dragon scales with their stories and memories. “Rhythm of the Dragon” can also serve as a vibrant performance space, creating a venue for locals and visitors to come together, share memorable moments and create cherished memories. At sunrise, it embraces the dawn breeze; at sunset, it fosters joyful celebrations.