After 3.5 months, the 35ft commissioned wall mural was completed for White Lotus Kung Fu Studio in Ravenna, Ohio. What a busy past few months!
This mural incorporates the classic 5 Kung Fu animals: leopard, tiger, snake, crane, and dragon. These animals are guarding the treacherous jungle bridge path leading to the lonely mountain temple. I used a light ivory background and muted colors to produce the traditional Chinese silk tapestry effect. The background is sponged glazed to make it appear washed. In contrast, the animals are in bold colors to make them stand out against the eerie mountains. The mountains are based off of the Tianzi mountain range in China. This mountain range consists of 3,000 tall, skinny spires and small temples do actually exist on some of the spires.
The animals are the traditional 5 main animals of Kung Fu. Monkey and mantis are also kung fu animals, they are just not the top 5, unlike in Kung Fu Panda. The dragon can be seen flying through the sky with his chi ball. Traditional Chinese dragons always have to have their chi ball. The snake is based off of the King Cobra snake native to China.This snake can grow up to 10 feet long and stand on it’s tail to look someone in the eye! Terrifying! The leopard is doing what all cats do best by sleeping up high in the cherry tree. Don’t cats normally smile while they sleep? To contrast the leopard, the ferocious tiger is guarding the gateway to the bridge. Anyone who is brave enough to take the journey must face the tiger and snake before they they start. Would you dare to cross the bridge?
Below are some photo highlights of the mural. If you would like to view the full portfolio you may find theme here!
Which animal is your favorite? Comment below!
Love that Tiger. But the whole mural is beautiful
Thank you! I love the cats the best. The leopard is my personal favorite.