Awakening of ‘Hock Loong’ the Learning Dragon

‘Hock Loong’ the Learning Dragon will be officially welcomed into Bendigo Library this Saturday morning with a traditional Chinese Eyes Open Ceremony performed by the Golden Dragon Museum.

'Hock Loong' has been created as a community arts project by local artists Robbie Buckman and Leanne Monteith, and is a feature of this year’s Write on the Fringe Festival. Over 100 community members attended workshops in June to help make more than 600 shiny scales.

Robbie and Leanne estimate that when completed, 'Hock Loong' will have over 1000 scales in total and will measure approximately 10 metres in length. His head and tail were especially made in China and arrived just before the third dragon decorating workshop.

“We are proud to celebrate Bendigo’s rich Chinese heritage by decorating and installing this amazing piece of community art in the Bendigo Library,” said Kath Waugh, Bendigo Library Manager.

“It is a great opportunity for community members to meet with local artists and contribute to the creative process as part of the Write on the Fringe Festival, one of our key annual events.”

'Hock Loong' will hang suspended above the children's area of Bendigo Library. Library staff and the community alike are eagerly anticipating his arrival!

For more information on other Write on the Fringe Festival events, visit: www.ncgrl.vic.gov.au/fringe