The Creative Arts Center in Bonham brought two international artists straight from Japan just for the enjoyment of children and adults alike. Two classes on Saturday June 7 were taught by Mr. Tatsuo Suzuki, VP of the International Taketombo Assn. and Mr. Isao Mori, Yokohama Branch Officer. Though both knew very, very little English, CAC supporter Mikisan was on hand to translate and assist. After building Taketombos (take is bamboo, tombo means dragonfly), the classes went into the field across the street to try out their flying works of art.
As each taketombo spun higher and higher into the air, Mr. Suzuki and Mr. Mori displayed their talents. Using aerodynamically perfect propeller equipment, they flew the super yanma far into the clouds. Each time, it goes at least ten meters straight up, explained Mikisan. For a special treat a new invention was demonstrated as well. Rather than being pure bamboo, this required a large slingshot that flung a bamboo stick with two flimsy propellers.
Once again, the Creative Arts Center has proved that simplicity, creativity and a little fun are the only things necessary for an artistic adventure – in any culture.
Mr. Suzuki and Mr. Mori make sure everyone's taketombo is ready.
A few basic instructions, in Japanese, get the class going.
The taketombo will lay perfectly still over a glass rim if it is balanced correctly for flight.
Always listen to children when it comes to toys.
Mikisan shows everyone how to hold the taketombo.
Mikisan demonstrates.
Practice...
Half the fun of letting go is keeping up with the taketombo.
Inga Posey, Creative Arts Center Director, gives it a shot.
This is a new invention...
...in flight.
A small, simple toy can bring lots of joy and admiration.
Posey watches over the participants, as well as the town, from the Creative Arts Center.
The Super Yanma!
Another toy...
A certificate of appreciation and a good joke transcend language and culture.
