A NEW generation of SuperDragons was brought a step closer yesterday, as potential sponsors took a look at the project that will see up to 60 sculptures spread across Newport once again.

SuperDragons 2 has been launched to celebrate London’s hosting of the Olympic games.

The new project follows the success of the first set of SuperDragons in 2010, which attracted thousands of visitors to the city.

The council has asked professional artists, amateurs, art groups, designers and photographers for ideas of how the sculptures, which are in the process of being made, might look.

Last night around 50 people, including potential sponsors, council leader Matthew Evans and Newport mayor Cllr Margaret Cornelius, gathered at the Riverfront Theatre to hear more about SuperDragons 2. They heard the sculptures will once again be placed in high-profile locations around Newport for the summer, with a farewell event at the end of the project.

The dragons will be a similar size to those involved in the 2010 exhibition, but will have a newdesign. An artists’ review panel will select how each dragon will be decorated fromthe ideas put forward.

Designs in the project two years ago included Recycled Royston – which was covered with recycled bottle tops – Elvis and Goldie Lookin’ Dragon. SuperDragons 2 will once again be made by Brighton-based company Wild in Art, and funded through local sponsors who can keep the sculptures afterwards.

Two companies have already signed up – construction firm Taylor Wimpey and housing company Seren Group.

Cllr Evans said: “The project in 2010 captured the public’s imagination andwas well received. Thousands followed the trail. We’re delighted to bring it back in 2012. There’s a new buzz of excitement coming from the artists and I know these SuperDragons are going to prove very popular again.”