design magazine

Article by Tania Droggitou
Posted on February 22nd, 2013
in Art & Tomas Saraceno

Tomas Saraceno is an Argentinian artist well known for his extra large and often fun filled interactive installations. His current work refers to the creation of a functioning solar powered hot air balloon which he claims anyone can construct by using easily obtained materials and following his 59 steps as laid down in his list of instructions.

The concept of this DIY flying contraption dates back to 2003 when he built his first balloon from black garbage bags and documented his progress. It became known as an installation at Maison Hermes in Ginza, Tokyo, where visitors were invited to crawl inside and examine the simple infrastructure of the balloon.

This visionary artist who regularly combines architecture with technology and physics within his work has now challenged his public to build a balloon for themselves. Using just garbage bags, transparent tape, rope, bicycle wheels and a car seat, two people working for 24 hours are capable of fulfilling the ultimate dream of many people, the empowerment of flight! He adds that a bright,sunny, wind free day would prove to be the perfect condition to try out the balloon for the planned flight.