Jim Thompson's unique kites are a wonder to see: a menagerie of beasts and birds and an occasional human. These are traditional diamond-shaped kites constructed of brown craft paper on a frame of wooden dowels and fish line. On each Jim uses acrylics to paint a face with eyes staring directly at the viewer, so when in the gallery you have the sense that it is you and not them who is being viewed. Some gaze at you with curiosity, some with pleasure, some with caution, and some seem to stare in judgment.
Two of Jim's kites were featured to represent the United States in a Tel Aviv museum display of hand-made kites from around the world.
Galleries and Other Venues
Grace Potter took her kite on tour!
Interview at WDEV Radio
Flying Instructions
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Kite of the Week |
Jim's kites are mostly hung as works of art,
but they are designed to fly. In flight they may take on a stronger personality
as if the wind breathes life into them. All you need is a bridle and some kite string.
The bridle is a length of string approximately 5 feet in length that is tied to the top
and bottom of the kite. Some instructions call for the bridle to be mounted six inches
or so from the top and bottom, requiring holes to be punched through the art work.
This can be done and may provide more stability in flight, but Jim has successfully
flown his kites with the bridle tied to the tips. If you choose to punch holes it is
a good idea to reinforce the back of the kite in those areas with a piece of packing or
duct tape.
All Kites of 2011
All Kites of 2012 - 2013
All Kites of 2014 - 2017
All Kites of 2018-2023
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