Have you ever seen something that was so artistic yet so unexpected? I love seeing artists that work a little outside of the box.
I came across these intricate balloon animals online and knew I just had to learn the story behind them. I knew balloon animals existed, but I never thought they could be turned into full-on sculptures.
Artist T. James Cook usually worked with traditional mediums before discovering balloon animals.
“I am an artist that likes to experiment with everything. I mostly paint, draw, and make robots, but I love to experiment with stuff,” he says.
It all started when a few years ago, he started learning how to make balloon animals for his niece. He says that once it started, it “basically got out of hand.”
His biggest inspirations are birds.
“I love animals, especially birds– British birds in particular– so I thought I would have a go at making some out of balloons,” he says.
He uses something called qualatex balloons, and the natural latex used in those degrade as quickly as an oak leaf.
He keeps all of the popped balloons regardless, as not to disturb the ecosystems he shoots his finished product at. An oak leaf (and therefore the latex,) takes about 4 years to break down.
If you want to check out more of Cook’s work, you can check out his instagram here. He has a wide variety of art beyond the balloons as well.
If you’re curious and want to learn how to make some, check out the tutorial below. It may not be as intricate as his, but it’s still pretty cute!