BME: Body Modification Ezine

A black-and-white photo of a person mid-air in a Superman-style body suspension pose, supported by multiple hooks in their back and legs, smiling joyfully toward the camera. They are suspended horizontally in a large indoor space with high ceilings and visible rigging. A group of onlookers—some seated, some standing—watch with expressions of admiration, amusement, and support. The atmosphere is lively and communal, capturing a moment of shared experience and transformation.

Tattoo, Piercing, and Body Modification News, Events, and Culture

Skin and Strings: The Art of Human Puppetry

Written by

Jonathon

One of the most powerful things about being at a convention like OSC is the sheer concentration of experience, creativity, and capability in one place. When you’re surrounded by people who not only understand the technical complexities of suspension but are excited by the challenge of something new, ideas can move quickly from imagination to reality. This puppet suspension was one of those ideas—strange, evocative, and technically demanding. But with the right inspiration, the right rigging minds, and a performer willing to give themselves to the vision, it can become something unforgettable.

I was drawn to puppet suspension after hearing about it from Kevin Donaghy when the OSC was having a meet for our Halloween performance, which had my mind wondering how the rigging could work and how could we make it happen, once I saw who all was going to be at suscon I knew I had to do and see what other creative minds could come up with and loved the idea of other OSC member’s and friends being puppeteers. 

The suspension was everything I wanted and more. Already have the gear turning to take this idea to another level hopefully in the near future.

-Kyle (@big_ears.bauer_north)

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