The Balloon Factory functions as a workspace and spectacle at once. Through it, the Object Design League explores methods of producing objects for consumption in a direct way, collapsing fabrication, distribution and purchasing into one space. The designers are replicating a hidden manufacturing process, but more importantly, taking ownership of it. Specially shaped formers dipped into liquid latex, hand-painted, and dried to create unique balloons—a portion of these inflated with helium was given to the public. By making a product by hand that is only known to be made industrially, they locate their practice on the fringes of mass production. In September, the Object Design League will be launcing an online store based on some of these principles. Balloon Factory is part of We Are Here: Art and Design Out of Context, curated by MCA Design Director James Goggin with MCA designer Alfredo Ruiz. Other participants throughout the month of July include Golden Age, Tim Parsons and Jessica Charlesworth, and Sonnenzimmer.
