The History of Air Artists – Inflatable Art Innovators Based in Essex, England
Introduction
Air Artists is a pioneering company known for designing and producing some of the most iconic inflatable art pieces for the world’s largest theatres, concert stages, and musical tours. Founded in 1976 by Rob Harries, the company has been at the forefront of pushing the boundaries of inflatable artistry, creating show-stopping pieces that have become integral to some of the most memorable moments in entertainment history. Based in Essex, England, Air Artists has earned a reputation for its unparalleled creativity and engineering, producing inflatables for top-tier artists and global events.
The Birth of Air Artists (1976)
In 1976, when few people understood the potential of inflatables in performance art, Rob Harries saw an opportunity to create something truly unique. The concept was simple yet groundbreaking: combining art, engineering, and performance to create dynamic, large-scale inflatables that could be incorporated into live shows. At a time when most inflatables were considered novelty items or used for simple advertising, Harries envisioned a more artistic and theatrical application.
Starting with basic inflatables, the company’s early work was shaped by experimentation and an innovative spirit. As demand grew, Air Artists quickly became known for pushing the limits of what inflatable art could do in live entertainment.
The Evolution of Air Artists: Pioneering Inflatable Art
Over the next four decades, Air Artists evolved into one of the most influential companies in the live performance and event industries. As technology and materials advanced, so did the complexity and scale of the company’s creations. Inflatables could now be designed to interact with the performers, create massive visual impacts, and transform the atmosphere of entire venues.
Some of the most iconic moments in entertainment history have been shaped by Air Artists’ creations. These monumental inflatables have defined certain eras and performances, earning a permanent place in the collective memory of fans worldwide.
- The Collapse of the “2nd Berlin Wall” with Roger Waters (1990)
One of Air Artists’ most famous contributions was to the The Wall tour by Roger Waters. During this legendary performance, a massive inflatable replica of the Berlin Wall was constructed on stage, symbolizing the division between East and West. As the wall dramatically “collapsed” during the show, it became one of the most powerful moments in live concert history. This moment was not only a testament to the power of inflatables in live performance but also a historical symbol of the fall of the Berlin Wall. - Euro Disney Grand Opening – King Triton (1992)
For the grand opening of Euro Disney in Paris, Air Artists created a gigantic inflatable figure of King Triton, the mythical father of Ariel from The Little Mermaid. This extraordinary inflatable was a central element in the opening ceremony, showcasing the company’s ability to create immersive, themed experiences that blended art with entertainment. - Collaborations with Legendary Artists
Over the years, Air Artists has collaborated with some of the biggest names in music and entertainment. Their inflatables have graced the stages of artists such as:- Pink Floyd
- Queen
- Iron Maiden
- AC/DC
- The Rolling Stones
- Guns N’ Roses
- Bryan Adams
- Elton John
Today: A Family-Run Business
Despite its global success and iconic status in the entertainment industry, Air Artists remains a family-run business based in Essex, England. Even after nearly 50 years in operation, the company has maintained its commitment to delivering a full handmade and bespoke inflatable service. Air Artists shows no sign of slowing down, With a team that is continuously pushing the envelope in terms of both creativity and technology the future looks bright for the company. Today, as a family-run business offering bespoke, handmade inflatables, Air Artists remains as committed as ever to producing unique, high-quality designs that make each performance unforgettable. Their legacy of excellence continues to inspire and transform the world of live entertainment.
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