Project Kwai Chai Hong returns with ‘Moonlit Dragon’ installation to celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 26 — Project Kwai Chai Hong by Bai Chuan Management returns with Mid-Autumn installations inspired by Chinese mythology and folklore, the Moonlit Dragon which combines cultural themes of the dragon and the full moon.
The monumental realm of the Moonlit Dragon features an immersive public art installation alongside a hidden back alley of Petaling Street’s Kwai Chai Hong, known by many as a cultural hub of KL Chinatown.
The installation this year is held in partnership with Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5, Flip5, with its enormous centrepiece fronted by local young artist Kaiyi Wong from Unreality Studio.
According to Bai Chuan Management managing partner Zeen Chang, the installation theme this year is inspired by the values and teachings of Chinese folklore inculcated since birth and how they became a part of our daily life.
“Kwai Chai Hong is always at the forefront of showcasing installations with themes surrounding Chinese culture presented in a fresh and oftentimes thought-provoking manner to tease our visitors, particularly the younger generation.
“It is our way of preserving Chinese tradition through modernity.”
Drawing inspiration from the rich culture of Chinese traditions, Moonlit Dragon exudes a magical ambience that is expected to leave visitors spellbound.
This year's theme transcends the boundaries of traditional Mid-Autumn celebrations and reconceptualises the meaning of strength and unity in giant proportion.
According to Chang, the dragon represents strength, grace and protection, while the moon represents unity and completeness.
The dragon tail in the making for the Moonlit Dragon art installation. — Picture courtesy of Bai Chuan Management
“The Moonlit Dragon is the reflection of the heart and spirit of Malaysians, who share a history of being united in strength, regardless of our backgrounds, ethnicities and cultures, and how we choose to protect them.”
Each part and component of the Moonlit Dragon represents an awe-inspiring dragon of colossal proportions coming to life through well-crafted wooden frames adorned with lattice of translucent plastic plates to look like ancient Chinese coins strung together by a red string.
Speaking about the inspiration behind the installation, Wong said the art aims to transport visitors to a realm of wonder, where the mythical dragon and the moon come together in harmony.
“The artwork serves to guide us as an integral thread woven into the intricate tapestry of our cherished Chinese lineage, as the Moonlit Dragon connects the past and the present, igniting a sense of belonging and reverence, honouring the footsteps of those who came before.”
Kwai Chai Hong will be open to the public daily from 9am until midnight.
The Moonlit Dragon will be available until October 8.
