From the archive
Japanese artist Masayoshi Matsumoto Elevates Balloon Art to New Heights
a sea horse (left) and mandrill (right) created from balloonsWe want Masayoshi Matsumoto at our next birthday party! Although, admittedly, it may be difficult to get the kids to request things other than swords, shields and helmets. Elevating the realm of balloon art and taking it to new heights, Matsumoto uses balloons of all sizes to create intricate, detailed animals and plants that appear to be made from something – anything – other than inflatable rubber. But Matsumoto assures us the he never uses adhesive, markers or stickers to augment or enhance his creations.
goldfishHe posts his creations to tumblr. He even has a dedicated site for characters where he openly states that he does use paint or markers to create certain parts (usually the eyes) of his characters. You can also follow him on twitter.
iguana
jellyfish (with neon balloons)
hermit crab
mayfly
Discussion
They look pretty cool in photos, but some of them might be too big when seen at actual size.
Young uncles here find balloon art a good way to impress their nephews and nieces. Most 100 yen shops have all you need to be a balloon artist.
these are cute. Too bad they don't last long.