SE*Ed: The Art of Twisting Balloons

Participants at Grinnell Regional Medical Center’s upcoming Senior Education program will have the opportunity to learn about the history of twisting balloons as well as try their hand at making a balloon toy.

Self-taught balloon artist Charlie Clements will give a presentation on “Inflated Ideas: The Art of Twisting Balloons.” Clements became interested in balloon art after being taught how to make a simple balloon sword at a small fundraiser several years ago.

“I was fascinated by the transformation from a long balloon to a recognizable toy sword. Later, we bought a small balloon making kit at a toy store for my son to play with. It came with a book that showed how to make a few simple figures. We goofed around with that and got reasonably good at making the easy ones,” Clements says. Since then he has expanded his abilities with other books and You Tube videos. He volunteers regularly in the elementary schools and often makes animals and figures for children that achieve various academic goals. He has also performed at GRMC, Drake Community Library, Grinnell College, Relay for Life, and Grinnell’s annual elementary school carnival.

“There’s something magical about handing something you’ve just made to another person, especially a child, and seeing their face light up,” Clements says.

During his presentation, Clements will describe what is needed to become a practicing balloon artist. He will offer some information about the history of balloon art, tell you where you can get supplies, probably tell some bad jokes to annoy his wife, and, of course, demonstrate how to make several balloon sculptures. There will be audience participation, too. His goal is to have everyone in attendance make their own balloon sword.

Clements warns that many balloons will be harmed during the presentation. “If you are allergic to latex or loud noises, this may not be for you,” he says.

This program is free and open to the public. It will be held in the Drake Community Library with refreshments beginning at 9:30 a.m.

Looking ahead on the schedule, SEED will welcome Melisa Coaker, MD, sleep specialist, who will give a presentation about sleep medicine on Monday, Sept. 28.

Parking is available at the Drake Community Library, along Park Street, on Fifth Avenue, and in the First Presbyterian Church parking lot. Seniors needing transportation may call GRMC Communications and Development, 641-236-2593, by Thursday before the program.

If you are a person with a disability who requires special assistance, please call 641-236-2593. For more information about upcoming speakers please check GRMC’s website at www.grmc.us or call 641-236-2593