Wedding sculptures
Clothing for the wedding couple - and everyone else in attendance
It was probably 15 years ago when I made my first Halloween costume entirely out of balloons. At the time, I was focusing on magic. I was still using balloons largely to enhance my magic shows and I was starting to explore balloons on their own. At the time, even though I was experimenting with making fabrics out of balloons, I needed to have a costume underneath the balloons. They formed more of a framework to a costume than a costume itself. It was a harlequin jester. I thought about including that first “costume” pic here, but couldn’t quite bring myself to it.
Over the last few years, a number of artists have started making more detailed clothing completely out of balloons. Anyone exploring my web site knows that I’ve also gotten into that. Working last year with Kelly Cheatle, I created several pieces for a fashion show in Las Vegas (we’ll be at that show again next month) and we created a piece out of balloons that was designed by Malon Breton for Fashion Week in NYC. We’ve reached the point that it’s no longer just the esoteric events that are showcasing these balloon fashions. Twice in the last month, Kelly and I have created tuxedos and wedding dresses for guests at local weddings to enjoy.
These particular pieces haven’t been worn by the bride and groom. Rather, guests have been invited to stand behind them and pose for photos. As soon as I can get some photos with people, I’ll get them online. For now, I’m posting what I have since I just couldn’t wait any longer to share this piece.
I hope this question doesn’t sound rude or forward. Please take it in the nicest of tones. First of all they are beautiful and you have so much talent. I know you have done so much for the balloon entertainment community. I have been doing balloons for about 17 years and use them mainly as entertainment. I have wrestled with expanding my horizons but I am not sure there is any monetary value to large works like this. That is my question. Does one make enough money to make it worthwhile or do you consider it mare of an art? I have known artist who have spent weeks on a peice of work and make barely enough money to pay for their supplies.
Thanks so much for your time.
Mackee,
I don’t mind the question at all. I’ve had other artists ask the same question many times. The large sculptures are, indeed, how I make my living. Like anything else, it’s taken years of dedication to make it work. There were many times as I was developing the skills and my own style when I felt like I was doing it only for me. This kind of work is not for everyone. However, I’m glad I’ve stuck it out. I’ve had opportunities to create pieces like this at events around the world and I’ve been rewarded well for what I’ve done.