While we've covered the use of tricked-out balloons for artistic purposes in the past, artist Jed Berk has taken the good-time staple to new levels of creative expression. Making a name for himself working "primarily with inflatable forms," Berk has been quietly developing intelligent balloons and ALAVS that interact with humans like domesticated animals--called Blubberbots by their creator. In addition to morphing into house pets, these mini-blimps have also been utilized for a range of other projects.Below, watch as these balloons are used to…Heir-looming, 2011…grow faux tomatoes from the rafters.9ine lives and 9ine lives too li, 2011…create a delightfully frightening array of wafting bobble heads.ALAVs 2.0, 2007…have a drone party.…abduct earthlings.…organize the world's most post-modern dinner party.As The World Turns, 2010…turn into shriveled earth(es).Comunidad Autonama 18 - Ballenas Flotantes, 2009.…confuse small children.…do whatever's going on over here.Untitled (blow out), 2011…create a colorful wheel.Her/Him, 2010and our favorite…turn into irritated eyeballs.Poke, 2011Her/Him & Fake Flawless from jedberkWhile his Berk's site offers a range of interesting balloon uses, be sure to check out his newest project below: a Kickstarter to fund Itsabobs--inflatables perfectly weighted and controlled so they won't drift off."The itsabob is a toy for the kid in all of us," explains Berk."But it's also a useful balloon weight and display system, so that when you're done playing, your balloons won't float away."Jed Berk
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