Rhythm of the Dragon
Shi Qi Tu, Adrian Siu
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.
Special thanks to:
Plasticwood studio
Contact Lens Easy Co Ltd
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Material
Stainless Steel, Recycled Plastic
Shi Qi Tu, Adrian Siu
Shi Qi is a UK registered architect and designer, and the founder of TU by TU Studio. Her studio focuses on human-centered design in architecture, interiors, installations and products. She is passionate about creating innovative designs that positively impact the environment, communities, and individuals by seamlessly integrating functionality with artistic expression.
She earned her BSc and MArch with distinction from the Bartlett School of Architecture, UCL. She gained extensive work experiences in London, Hong Kong, and Shanghai, including as a Lead Architect at Zaha Hadid Architects, contributing to numerous iconic international projects. Additionally, she served on the London Southwark Design Review Panel, providing professional advice to enhance design quality.
Her works have received several awards, been featured in various publications such as the Architects’ Journal and ArchDaily, and showcased in multiple exhibitions.
Adrian Siu is a registered architect in the UK, whose design methodology communicates the cultural and contextual influences informing each project. His design approach explores the intersection between culture, space and time.
Adrian completed his architectural education at The Chinese University of Hong Kong and The Bartlett School of Architecture UCL in London with Distinction. His work has been featured in renowned design publications, including the Architects’ Journal, Hinge and Blueprint for the Future, and exhibited in academic and industry exhibitions.
Over the past decade, Adrian has been practicing architectural design in both Hong Kong and the UK, notably in Foster + Partners. His experience spans across a wide spectrum of disciplines, from architecture and interior design to public spaces and art installations.
