...from concept

For decades, the district had been looking for an opportunity to build a “gateway” into the community. Unlike San Francisco or New York, the Seattle Chinatown-International District lacked a definitive entrance. So, thanks to a BIA Board member who happened to drive past some innovative spiral work, the Dragon Pole Project was born. The engineer, Martin Brunt, whose spiral work is some of the most exciting and creative ever done, has collaborated with local artist, and cultural advisor Meng Huang, to maintain the artistic integrity of the project. Heather Presler, the primary artist, diligently created molds that suited the needs of both the engineer, as well as the cultural liaison. Though countless individuals have provided support on this project, it would not have been possible without the cooperation of these three individuals. Our generous sponsors, the Seattle Department of Neighborhoods, and the South Downtown Foundation helped to fund the project.

The purpose of the project was to offer alternative “gateways” into the community. Due to the historic character of the neighborhood, the area isn’t visible due to the height of surrounding buildings, Interstate-5, and new development. In order to make this great neighborhood more visible, the Dragon sculptures will be placed along the perimeter of our boundaries.

The design calls for each of the 11 dragons to be custom made to fit Feng Shui recommendations, the size of poles, and cultural standards. The sculptures are anywhere from twelve to twenty feet in length, and spiraling up, around, and down! The three-color schemes are “Jade”, “Gold”, and “Fire”. The dragons are hand sculpted and detailed, producing a project that required extensive attention and has produced unmatchable results.

...to reality