LightArt “The Dragon” \ 3form

The plan for this installation called for creating two dragon bodies, each with its own head. The directive was for it to have lots of color, so over twenty different Varia colors were used. Each body has its own color scheme, one warm (yellow, reds and oranges) and the other cool (green, blues, and purples.) The mixing of the various Varia layers doubled and tripled the effect, with the colors overlaying each other – giving the appearance of a bold watercolor painting.

For the lighting, color-changing RGB LED lights were used. Each section of the dragon is accentuated with the complementary color produced by the LEDs. Additionally, they can be programmed to dance – creating an effect that the dragon is actually moving.

LightArt "The Dragon", image courtesy 3form

LightArt "The Dragon", image courtesy 3form

The lights are controlled from an iPad, so the operator can achieve various effects. To add a little whimsy, smoke and sound effects were also added.

LightArt completed this extremely complex project within a tight deadline – in time for the start of the Chinese New Year, since 2012 is the Year of the Dragon.

+ The facts

• 75 feet long (both halves)
• 6 sections, 2 heads
• RGB LED lighting with full DMX control via iPad
• 3 months to build

LightArt "The Dragon", image courtesy 3form

LightArt "The Dragon", image courtesy 3form