August 2008 Newsletter

Yukio Akiyama: Collaborating to Preserve a Collection for All Generations

Mr. Akiyama first came to Drachen's attention when a set of origami kite designs were emailed to us from Japan. Although the art of origami has been around for centuries, it has never been a subject of interest or collection in the world of kites. Our archival collection never had any reason to make any origami piece a part of our collection, until now. More >>

Of Kites, the Titanic, and 98-year-old Dynamos

Gloria had just turned 85 and had become famous - again - through her Oscar-nominated performance in "Titanic." She had been a true Hollywood star in the 1930's and was all but retired when director James Cameron brought her on board "Titanic." Sid Burger, paper collector extraordinaire, explained that Gloria was working on a kite book and it would be interesting for us to hear her speak and to offer help if she needed. It would also be our chance to see Sid's amazing collection of paper. More >>

Tracking down Peter Lynn Disposing of 37-Year Trove

After 37 years manufacturing kites, Peter Lynn has retired. Well, sort of.

Although the New Zealander has moved from direct involvement in manufacturing and distribution, he has retained ownership of the Peter Lynn brand name and remains actively involved in designing and continues to circle the globe flying his creations at kite festivals, where they are customarily the star attraction because of their large size and attractive appearance. Meanwhile, the inventor and showman works on a project that has intrigued him for two decades now----perfecting the sport of kite sailing. He hopes this kind of boating will become the next major extreme sport and feels this is reasonably close to happening More >>

Making History at Kite Makers Conferences

Several years back, the Drachen Foundation board of directors thought to give $500 scholarships to kite workshop retreats that would bring international kite makers to their venues to bring together new approaches to kiting. The criteria for participating was simple, work with Drachen to invite an international kitemaker of excellent quality either in contemporary or traditional kite making, send us proof of their airfare, a certificate of your non profit status, and we would support your choice by cutting the check. More >>

2008 Wildwoods International Kite Festival

The Drachen Foundation is a "maker of memories." Over the years their generous support of various events has enabled a diverse and talented group of people to teach, share, and enjoy the varied aspects of the world of kites and the community of kiting. Over the years, my husband, Lindsey Johnson, and I have been involved with Drachen in a number of these events. More >>