Renowned international artist Zhen Guo, will be partnering with students, faculty, and volunteers to co-create a striking full-body dragon sculpture from recycled materials for use in the traditional "dragon dance." In addition, students and volunteers will have the opportunity to practice music and choreography for use in performances scheduled around campus, public art sites and community festivals. This newly imagined U-M dragon, with its futuristic flair, technological creativity and sustainable materials, invites students and the entire community to re-envision a classic cultural symbol for contemporary times.

Details are still being finalized so follow the LRCCS webpage for more updates.

Student Courses - Winter Semester 2026
REGISTRATION NOW OPEN!

RCARTS 270
Build the serpentine body of the dragon

RCMUSIC 352
Create one-of-a-kind found art instruments to accompany the dragon’s dance

RCMUSIC 321
Chinese music ensemble

SMTD PAT 413/513
Explore the dragon’s sonic properties—voice, movement, and character

Clothing & Portrait Drive

Help bring spirit and scales to the U-M dragon in making. Donate t-shirts (especially U-M cast-offs) for the dragon's body! Boxes are located at: International Institute (4th floor), Residential College (main office, 1813 EQ), and Taubman College (Taubman Commons). You can also share a photo with us of someone who you would like to honor or commemorate for a dragon scale.

Podcast—Let’s Talk Dragon

Listen to our podcast about this initiative. Hear individuals talk about how the dragon is relevant to them—what characteristics stir the imagination…

Public Lectures

Attend lectures on Feb 4 and 5 to learn about Guo’s trajectory as senior feminist artist and explore why the dragon is such an inspiration in visual and musical arts.

Dragon Dance Performances

Attend a performance on April 6, 10 or 11 at Hill Auditorium, FullMoon & FestiFools, and art sites including the Maya Lin Wave Field and David Barr’s “Liberation” sculpture. There will also be a sneak peek dragon viewing at the Residential College on Feb 17.

Dancing the Dragon

Train with Golden Dragon Kung Fu Learning Academy in March—volunteers are welcome! Contact: chinese.studies@umich.edu for scheduling details and participation.