Before I proceed, I want to emphasize that this is solely my perspective. I acknowledge that you may have a different take, and I welcome your input. I understand that my opinion may not sit well with everyone, and I'm open to a healthy debate.
Despite its limitations, I've observed that this technique remains popular among some balloon twisters and enthusiasts. It's often discussed, admired, and even used in various settings.
so, what is the technique?
Distortion.
There, I've said it. I've gotten it off my chest. I believe that distortion has limited commercial value in the balloon industry. If you're unfamiliar with balloon distortion then it is the art of manipulating balloons into unconventional shapes and you can read more about it more on The Very Best Balloon Blog by Sue Bowler.
Allow me to explain my stance on distortion's limited commercial value through a personal anecdote.
A few years ago, I was showing some photos from a balloon art competition to a friend who is not involved in the industry. As we browsed through the intricate sculptures, I noticed her expressing disapproval of certain entries.
One particular piece that stood out to her was a sculpture of a well-known Disney character. Upon closer inspection, she pointed out the oddly shaped elements. "Well, it's not all made from balloons," she declared. I inquired about the specific parts she deemed non-balloon, and she confidently asserted that the oddly shaped components were undoubtedly pre-moulded.
Her observation highlighted a crucial aspect of distortion that, in my opinion, lessens the art of balloons. When a customer looks at my work, I want them to instantly know it is made from balloons. The last thing I want is for a customer to scrutinise my creations and dismiss them as mere pre-moulded plastic.
Don't get me wrong, as someone who understands balloons and distortion, I can appreciate the skill and creativity involved in creating distortion pieces. However, from the perspective of a customer who is unfamiliar with balloons, the perception may be quite different. When a customer looks at a distortion flower that has taken an hour to create, they may not see the skill that went into it. They may simply see a piece of plastic that resembles a flower that could have been purchased from a local wholesaler.
Another factor that contributes to the limited commercial value of distortion is its time-consuming nature. Creating a distortion piece can take significantly longer than traditional balloon twisting techniques. Unless you have a long client list of Russian oligarchs, with their vast wealth, who may be willing to pay exorbitant prices for unique and intricate distortion pieces, I really do think that distortion has no place in the current balloon industry.
After all that I have said, I want to make it clear that I am NOT saying you should abandon distortion techniques. I wholeheartedly encourage balloon artists to explore distortion and other techniques, regardless of their commercial viability. Experimentation, learning, and expanding one's artistic repertoire are essential for personal growth and artistic development. Distortion, with its unique aesthetic and challenges, can serve as a valuable tool for honing one's skills and pushing creative boundaries.
However, in my opinion, distortion's limited commercial value makes it less suitable for those seeking to rely on balloon twisting as their primary source of income. The time commitment required to create distortion pieces and the potential disconnect with the general public's perception of balloon art, can all hinder an artist's ability to generate a consistent and profitable stream of income.
Distortion, does indeed have a place within the balloon world, As balloon artists, we should embrace experimentation, learn from each other's techniques, and continue to push the boundaries of what's possible with balloons. After all, the essence of art lies not in its commercial value but in its ability to inspire, evoke emotions, and spark creativity.
What are your thoughts on balloon distortion techniques?
