Working alongside Jacky Tsai, we wanted to try holographic technology using LED fans to create an image within real 3D space. Sponsored by Shanghai Tang, Jacky wanted something that would celebrate what was the coming new year of the Dragon and its water-based associations, with his classic western twist.

Utilising Jacky’s artwork, we created a dragon from twisting Neon lights and signs, giving a suggestion of a deep-water based creature such as an eel or angler fish whilst retaining that Eastern-Western dialogue that is prolific in Jacky’s work.

The water association is further emphasised through the sound of the fans, which could be heard at full volume creating a waterfall-like soundscape. The model itself was built, rigged and textured as a 3D animated character, later mapped onto the fans using LED holographic technology.

The result was an immersive artwork that brings one of Jacky Tsai’s vibrant, whimsical characters into our own world, further breaking the 4th wall often established by screen-based media.