The Dragon Family
Camp Allen’s “The Dragon Family” was the most student-driven design of all the mosaics we created in Norfolk, Virginia. The dragon is the school mascot, but I was wary of doing something too cartoonish. The students shared with me what they saw in the dragon and what they saw in themselves: strength, courage, resolve, and fierceness. The dragon was a symbol, a powerful representation of them and their school. It was an illuminating conversation that guided my work.
This mosaic represents the story of Camp Allen Elementary School, a place where young people are protected, supported and encouraged to learn, to grow, to create, and to make friends. The Dragon Family symbolizes the collective spirit of the place - both formidable and protective.
PROJECT DETAILS
LOCATION: Camp Allen Elementary School, Norfolk, Virginia
DATE: October 2019
DIMENSIONS: 18′ by 9′, semi-circle
COMMISSIONED BY: Norfolk Arts
PROJECT MANAGER: Karen Rudd
DESIGNED BY: Marc Archambault
FABRICATED BY: Marc Archambault, Fred Lashley, Jonathan Frederick, Tony Costa, Brian Holda
INSTALLED BY: Marc Archambault, Fred Lashley, Jonathan Frederick, Tony Costa
ENGINEERING: Andrew Terrell of Lysaght & Associates, Raleigh, NC
TECHNICAL SUPPORT: Bo Thompson of Blackstone Masonry
PROFESSIONAL IMAGES: Dave Chance Photography