Loong Bee talks about his world of sand art and the journey of his mastery
Going Places chats with Loong Bee, the self-taught Malaysian sand artist who has left footprints all over country and abroad with his mesmerising performances.
1.Can you share with us your journey in mastering the sand art technique?
About four years ago, I came across a TV program about a master sand artist from China called Su Da Bao. I was so fascinated with his art that I decided to go on Youtube to watch and learn more about this amazing sand art performance. Eventually, I mastered this art after practising almost every day. I crafted the equipment needed and let my imagination flow with the versatile sand material.
2.When was your first breakthrough in the public sphere with sand art performance and how did you build a name for yourself in the early stages?
My first performance was held in HELP College where they invited me to share my art. I created a love story with sand art. The crowd was so impressed with my performance, they gave me an applause that I will never forget.
3.What is the most special thing about sand art compared to other forms of artistic work?
The biggest difference between sand art and other art forms of art is that I am creating an image that constantly moves and changes. This gives a semblance of life to the images.
4.What comments from the public about your works are most memorable to you?
People always have very nice things to say about my art, but the most memorable one would have to be when someone told me that God gave me fingers that work magic.
5.What other forms of art are you good at and do you still practice them?
I have been drawing comics since I was very young. I still do it during my free time, but I really like to focus on taking my sand art to new heights.
6.Who is your greatest inspiration?
Without a shadow of doubt, my greatest inspiration has been Su Da Bao, a Chinese performance sand artist who first engaged in sand art performance in Asia. I really wish that one day I will get the chance to meet him in person.
7.If you can change one thing in this world, what would it be and why?
If I could change one thing, it would be changing my beloved country Malaysia to be a crime-free country. Nothing is more important to me than the safety of my loved ones.
8.What do you foresee yourself doing in the next decade?
Taking sand art to a whole new level as a powerful moving piece of art. Sand art animation!
Loong Bee contributed his talents during the launch of goingplaces.malaysiaairlines.com. Watch his amazing performance here: youtube.com/watch?v=_J49YJnwXCA
