Nine Dragons' Dance - Cornelia Erdmann

2024

Lightart, public art, permanent installation

Nine Dragons’ Dance is a mesmerising light artwork installation that captivates viewers with its stunning visual display of animated colourful triangular shapes. This remarkable piece combines elements of traditional Chinese culture with cutting-edge technology to create a truly unique spectacle in homage to the site of Kowloon.
The centrepiece of the installation is a series of nine abstract dragon sculptures – sequences of triangles crafted from reflective acrylic glass. Each dragon is intricately designed and illuminated with vibrant hues that cast multiple triangular shadows and reflections onto the wall. The dragons’ dazzling dance is set in motion through a light choreography giving the impression that they are floating and moving gracefully through the space. The interplay of light, colour, and implied motion creates an ethereal atmosphere, transporting viewers into a realm of enchantment.

The installation takes its inspiration from the rich symbolism of dragons in Chinese mythology and their meaning for Kowloon. Nine Dragons’ Dance seeks to evoke these qualities through the medium of light and motion as well as through the triangles that represent the spines and spikes of dancing dragons as well as the mountain peak range of Kowloon. In Chinese culture, dragons are revered as powerful and auspicious creatures, representing strength, wisdom, and good fortune. The symbolism behind the number nine in Chinese culture adds further depth to the installation. The number nine is associated with eternity and completeness. It is believed to be a number of great significance and is often associated with celestial realms: nine dragons, nine emperors, nine peaks of Kowloon. By featuring nine dragons in the installation, Cornelia Erdmann pays homage to the cultural symbolism of the place and invites viewers to contemplate the profound connections between art, mythology, and culture.

Location: East Kowloon Cultural Centre, Hong Kong

Commissioned by Leisure and Cultural Services Department

Organised by Art Promotion Office, Hong Kong