Unlock the Magic of Puppetry: A Journey Through Art and Tradition
Explore captivating performances, fascinating exhibitions, and the whimsical puppets of Paul Klee in this must-read post from InHand and Om Happy Pom!
While exploring the web, I stumbled upon a fascinating post on InHand, celebrating the magical world of puppetry. It’s part of their “A Handful” series, where they curate a delightful selection of artistic highlights. This particular edition looks into the artistry of puppetry—its cultural roots, global traditions, and contemporary innovations.
From Vermont’s Bread and Puppet Theatre and their grassroots performances to Sicilian marionette craftsmanship and Lyndie Wright’s legacy at Little Angel Theatre in London, the post captures the vibrant spirit of puppetry across the world. It even touches on Paul Klee’s handmade puppets, a tender yet experimental side of this iconic artist that reflects his joy for creating.
Klee’s puppets, originally crafted for his son Felix, are a masterpiece of raw artistry, fashioned from everyday materials like matchboxes and nutshells. They’re eccentric, playful, and deeply personal, showcasing a lesser-known facet of the celebrated painter known for his abstract works. You can explore more about Klee’s whimsical puppets in this insightful post from Om HappyPom.
For those inspired to see more, here are some of the exciting exhibitions and events mentioned in the post:
Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival (January 15–26, 2025): A global celebration of puppetry with workshops, design studios, and performances showcasing a range of classic and contemporary styles from across the world.
My Neighbor Totoro at the Gillian Lynne Theatre (Spring 2025, London): A theatrical spectacle featuring breath-taking puppets designed by Basil Twist. Tickets are likely to go fast!
Go behind the scenes with renowned Puppetry Designer Basil Twist as he discusses his creative process and prepares for the return of Totoro
3. V&A Museum’s Folk Puppetry Collection (Ongoing, London): Explore the wonderful world of traditional puppets, including gems like Romanian puppets in traditional dress.
Museum of Puppetry in Slovenia: Home to an adorable national collection of puppets, it’s a must-see for enthusiasts of this timeless craft.
From the whimsical puppetry of My Neighbor Totoro to the inventive artistry of Paul Klee, these posts and upcoming events highlight the enduring power of creative expression.