Architectural painting master draws dragon for Dragon Head-raising Day

An event to show the charm of traditional Chinese architecture in detail was recently held in Beijing, attracting a group of young enthusiasts to watch Bian Jingyi, a renowned expert in architectural painting, paint a dragon - a symbol that has woven its way not only through Chinese history and culture, but also in architecture.

Bian Jingyi, who has had a passion for fine arts since his childhood, has dedicated over 60 years to the field of architectural painting. He has been involved in hundreds of building projects, including the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, and Beihai Park.

Bian demonstrated his rapid painting technique, showcasing his intricate skills in art painting. Every stroke of the master’s brush embodied a deep understanding of traditional culture, in not only a display of expertise but also a demonstration of the spirit of craftsmanship.

Witnessing the smooth and swift dragon-painting process, young architecture enthusiasts actively engaged in the interaction, during which the master imparted them the keys to paint a dragon on buildings such as on a pavilion.

The aim of the event was to introduce the public to the fascinating world of ancient Chinese architecture and the dragon designs that inhabit it, and to share and promote the inheritance and development of ancient architectural culture.  

In China, the second day of the second month in the traditional Chinese calendar marks the day of “Longtaitou,” also known as the Dragon Head-raising Day in English. This year, the traditional Chinese festival falls on Saturday, March 1.