The story of the Dragon.

Lake Lanier Olympic Park has been hosting Dragon Boat races since 1998 and has attracted thousands of visitors, rowers, tourists and athletes from around the world. Inspired by the cultural and historical significance of the Dragon Boat races on Lake Lanier, we set out to create a piece of interactive public art in the City of Gainesville that is unlike any other. It is bespoke, one-of-a-kind, interactive, historical and innovative.

The Interactive Dragon Art, left, is shown during the day, offering visitors a unique experience and photo opportunity. Organizers envision public art strengthening Gainesville’s economy through increased tourism and revenue to local businesses. On the right, the Interactive Dragon Art is shown at night. Throughout the day, the dragon will “awake” from its slumber, putting an awe-inspiring light and smoke show.

The site of the Interactive Dragon Art at Roosevelt Square will feature a set of sleek granite walls, shown right, engraved with donor names. The walls will be enhanced by replaceable content panels, where organizers plan to share the dragon’s story, along with a permanent artwork overview plaque.

Why Support the Dragon?

Great communities have great art.

Our art reflects who we are as a community. It makes us unique, enhances culture, and adds beauty.

The Arts strengthen our economy through increased tourism and revenue to local businesses.

With your tax deductible contribution, your name will be engraved downtown. Generations beyond will see your name and know you were part of a vision. You were part of the story that made Gainesville an art destination and you helped our great community have great art.

Thank you.

Donor Wall Information

500 Names on Dragon Donor Wall

  • The 500 names on the wall will be arranged in order to ensure flow, layout and continuity. Therefore, we have no control over the location of each donor’s placement on the wall.

Four Name Options

  • Example: Isaac Clark

  • Example: Isaac and Chloe Clark

  • Example: The Clark Family

  • Example: The Clark Company

Design of Name

  • To keep the all the rows of names consistent, we will adhere to inscriptions bearing the following four Name Options: Individual Name, Couple Name, Family Name and Business Name.

FAQs

  • The layout of the wall is dependent on maximizing space and creating a visually pleasing presentation of all those who donated. Location will be random. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee multiple engravings purchased at once (ex: one for each family member) will be positioned together.

  • Please contact Christina Santee, csantee@gainesvillega.gov, or Terri Kapetanis, tkapetanis@gainesvillega.gov with any questions about your order.

  • The timing depends on how quickly we reach the 500 donors. Once we reach the 500 donors, the “Friends of the Dragon” campaign will end. We don’t want you to miss out on the opportunity.