Inside the Basket - Daniel Killen, Official Balloon Fiesta Serigraph Poster Artist

Daniel Killen is the artist of the 2019 Official Balloon Fiesta Serigraph Poster. He is also an illustrator at the Chuck Jones Gallery, which owns the rights to many of the loveable Looney Tunes characters, including Wile E. Coyote and the Road Runner.

In this month’s Inside the Basket, Daniel talks about this year’s poster and what makes it unique.

1. Give a brief overview of your position and how you are involved with Balloon Fiesta.

I am an artist and illustrator who works for the Chuck Jones Gallery that is headquartered in southern California. I am honored to have been chosen by the Chuck Jones Gallery, which is a division of Linda Jones Enterprises to create this year’s Official Balloon Fiesta Serigraph Poster.

2. Why do you think posters are such a popular merchandise item for Balloon Fiesta guests?

I think the posters for Balloon Fiesta are such a neat thing to have. People want a memory to take with them and they identify the image of each year’s poster, with whatever memories they may have of their time here.

3. What makes this poster unique?

This poster is more than just trying to look pretty and trying to make people excited about Balloon Fiesta. It’s also telling a continuing story within itself. There are elements of character within this poster as well as a hidden element of a roadrunner somewhere in the poster (which I will not divulge).

4. What has been your favorite part about creating this poster?

My favorite part about creating this poster is how it evolved from my concept, which all starts basic, and then adding balloons and seeing how many balloons I can add. After adding colors I enjoy becoming inspired by the color scheme. And finally I enjoy seeing the finished product and seeing that I accomplished what I set out to do in a much better way than I originally thought.

5. Where can guests purchase an official poster?

Guests interested in purchasing this year’s poster can buy it online at balloonfiestastuff.com, at Balloon Fiesta’s Gift Shop and at this year’s Balloon Fiesta.