Introduction to ‘Loong Ma’
‘Loongma’ is one of the most epic mechanical art installations to exist today. This dragon’s head on a horse’s body is state-of-the-art in terms of its dimensions, artistic inventiveness, workmanship and technology: it measures 18 meters in length and 5 meters in width. When rearing up on its hind legs, the construction reaches a height of 12 meters, and it weighs a total of 50 tons. Its body is carved from ‘accoya wood’, an anticorrosive wood type. It features, among others, built-in mechanical structures, hydraulic transmissions and a control system using electrical sensors. Loongma can run and gallop, spit fire and water, breathe out smoke and shut its eyes, shake its ears and wag its tongue, making it seem almost lifelike. It’s able to engage in lively and compelling interactions with the audience. ‘Loongma’ is a symbol of the Chinese culture: the dragon represents power, the horse symbolizes diligence, sincerity and vitality. ‘Loongma’ embodies the Chinese people’s unremitting efforts towards self-improvement, their capacity for virtuousness, concerted efforts, unwavering enterprising spirit, positive ethos and lofty moral integrity.
The Chinese pavilion perched on the back of ‘Loong Ma’ signifies the realization of the ‘Chinese dream’.
The distinct artistic characteristics of the artwork ‘Loongma’ reflect the zeitgeist and evoke deeply affectionate responses among spectators.
