Sponsored by Kalisan
Houston, Texas

Described by The New York Times as “one of the greatest avant-garde balloon artists in the United States”, DJ Morrow has been creating balloons as fine art since 2019. He uses detailed sculptures and dramatic lighting to create images and in-person exhibitions that push the boundaries of what's accepted and expected out of balloon art. Exploring themes like grief, identity, religion, and politics, DJ believes the unique ephemerality and mass appeal of the medium has the potential to change the world

Sponsored by Betallic/Sempertex
Kawasaki, Japan

Rie Hosokai is a balloon artist based in Japan. She specializes in weaving modeling balloons. She first encountered balloons in 1998 and launched her own company, "Daisy Balloon," in 2002. She first participated in Twist & Shout in 2005, winning the Top Twister award that same year.

In Japan, she runs the "Amikomi Dojo," a school where students can learn weaving techniques from the basics, and trains them. Rie is committed to passing on balloon techniques to future generations and has lectured at balloon seminars around the world. Daisy Balloon, an artist unit with art director Takashi Kawada, has created conceptual installations for art museums and large commercial facilities around the world.

Sponsored by Betallic/Sempertex
Mount Juliet, Tennessee

Anthony was born and raised in Nashville, Tennessee, and has lived in the suburbs of Nashville his whole life. He just recently celebrated 25 years of doing balloon art. Anthony has received many awards for his work including winning the title of “Designer of the Year” at FLOAT 2022 and “Top Twister” at Twist & Shout 2025.

He is the owner of Balloons of Pure Awesomeness located in Mt. Juliet, TN. They offer balloon décor, balloon twisting entertainment, balloon deliveries, and balloon/magic shows. He’s the owner, but his mom, dad, brother, and wife all help out with different aspects of their business. It is truly a family business! Balloon Art is truly his passion in life, and loves sharing his knowledge and experiences with others.

Sponsored by Betallic/Sempertex
Nashville, Tennessee

Sam Cremeens is a Nashville-based balloon artist, entertainer, and decorator who first discovered the magic of balloon art in the summer of 2003. What began as a playful hobby quickly evolved into a full-time career when he moved to Nashville in 2011 to chase his dream of making a living doing what he loves. Today, Sam makes over 300 appearances annually, dazzling crowds at birthday parties, corporate events, trade shows, school and church carnivals, and restaurants. His passion for performance and education led him to co-host the Balloon Blast Video Show and produce a series of instructional videos for aspiring artists.

Sam’s talent and dedication have earned him international recognition, including prestigious awards like Top Twister 2020 and the Betallic Inspire Award in 2025. He’s also served as a featured instructor at major balloon and entertainment conventions across the globe. Now, as a proud partner with Betallic, Sam is excited to bring fresh, imaginative ideas to balloon enthusiasts everywhere—helping elevate your balloon adventures with creativity, fun, and a touch of flair.