King Dragons herald Victoria's Chinese New Year celebrations

DEREK SPALDING / Times Colonist
February 9, 2013

Two painted dragons are strung across Government Street, near Fisgard Street, in VictoriaÍs Chinatown on Saturday. Artist Steve Milroy spent more than 400 hours painting the six aluminum panels, which depict King Dragons on either side of a flaming pearl. The installation coincided with todayÍs lunar new year festivities, which start at noon.

Two metal dragons were strung above Government Street on Saturday, another stage in the ongoing enhancement of Canada’s oldest Chinatown.

Steve Milroy hung his own artwork Saturday afternoon, attaching the six aluminum panels above Government Street, near Fisgard Street. The panels depict two King Dragons on either side of a flaming pearl.

The pearl will eventually be illuminated, as will as the eyes of the dragon, so they can be seen at night, Milroy said.

Milroy spent more than 400 hours painting the images, the final phase of the Heavenly Lights Project.

The project, designed to enhance the historical district of downtown, is a partnership between the city, the Downtown Business Association and the Chinese community.

Other projects have included the installation of 28 pagoda pedestrian lamps, historic murals, decorative bike racks, refurbishment of phone booths and garbage cans and the addition of a self-guided Chinatown walking tour map.

“I think the City of Victoria really revels in its relationship with the Chinese community,” said Coun. Marianne Alto. “It’s not just the history that is spectacular — it’s also so enriching to have this neighbourhood a part of our city.”