The past two months I’ve had the privilege of documenting the creation of a dragon at the University of Michigan for the The Kenneth G. Lieberthal and Richard H. Rogel Center for Chinese Studies!
Led by international artist Zhen Guo alongside faculty arts lecturer Raymond Wetzel and artist Jeri Rosenberg, students and volunteers are coming together to bring a full-body dragon to life using recycled materials. Watching the process unfold was a reminder of how much care, collaboration, and intention goes into public art.
Every material and texture added depth and personality. I loved seeing the color, experimentation, and quiet focus happening—hands shaping, painting, fastening, refining.
There’s something incredibly powerful about witnessing artists breathe life into a symbol that represents strength, courage, and collective spirit.
It was an honor to document not just the sculpture - but the heart, teamwork, and artistry that made it possible.
Thank you so much for Carol, Jeri and Zhen for inviting me into these spaces to document this amazing work!