Rice and Rain

Commissioned by Dragon Boat BC and Presented by Concord Pacific

Thousands of years ago, Chinese people held races to appease the dragon god who controlled rain needed for rice crops. Patterns inspired by traditional porcelain rice bowls used by Chinese families at home contain motifs to recall this story. The speckles represent rice grains and rain drops, symbols of health and prosperity.

Since Hong Kong’s presentation of boats to Vancouver at the transportation-themed Expo 86, the paddling community has blossomed. The dragons honour the cities’ relationship. The blue dragon and dogwood flowers represent Vancouver, and the red dragon with Bauhinia Blakeanas represent Hong Kong: two dragons side by side, sharing the same spirit and passion for a race rooted in building and nourishing communities.

Special Thanks to Dominic Lai and Jeff Hamada for your support and including me in this meaningful project!

Good luck to all the Dragon Boat teams and paddlers on race days June 24-26, 2022!