Where are balloon animals most popular? This burgeoning art form was initially used to direct and focus the attention of adults and children alike. Patrons at crowded restaurants who were waiting for tables found their attention diverted from their growling stomachs by balloon artists, many of whom could create animals by request on the spot. Grateful parents often hire balloon artists for a temporary diversion of groups of toddlers who are normally practitioners of perpetual motion. The children watch the balloon artist perform in amazement, transfixed by the emerging animal shapes, hats or flowers. Let’s just hope that he or she has enough balloons to give each child a “take home” remembrance of the party.

Slowly but surely, the use of balloons for decorative pieces is emerging, replacing the standard party centerpiece, streamer decorations, and party favors. At the same time, balloon artists have raised their proficiency level, to the point that there are few items that “cannot” be reproduced as balloons. These new creations include oversize signs designed to attract customers, or to provide a scenic backdrop for photo opportunities.

What’s the downside? Florists may have to lay off assistants, due to fewer orders. Companies that make silk flowers may also have to “downsize” their staff. On a more serious note, those of us who are allergic to latex and latex products will have to speak up. Last but not least, there are the annoying squeaking sounds made by balloon artists. Can someone invent a quiet balloon?

Where are balloon animals most popular? This burgeoning art form was initially used to direct and focus the attention of adults and children alike. Patrons at crowded restaurants who were waiting for tables found their attention diverted from their growling stomachs by balloon artists, many of whom could create animals by request on the spot. Grateful parents often hire balloon artists for a temporary diversion of groups of toddlers who are normally practitioners of perpetual motion. The children watch the balloon artist perform in amazement, transfixed by the emerging animal shapes, hats or flowers. Let’s just hope that he or she has enough balloons to give each child a “take home” remembrance of the party.

Slowly but surely, the use of balloons for decorative pieces is emerging, replacing the standard party centerpiece, streamer decorations, and party favors. At the same time, balloon artists have raised their proficiency level, to the point that there are few items that “cannot” be reproduced as balloons. These new creations include oversize signs designed to attract customers, or to provide a scenic backdrop for photo opportunities.

What’s the downside? Florists may have to lay off assistants, due to fewer orders. Companies that make silk flowers may also have to “downsize” their staff. On a more serious note, those of us who are allergic to latex and latex products will have to speak up. Last but not least, there are the annoying squeaking sounds made by balloon artists. Can someone invent a quiet balloon?