November 2015

powerful tool: light. The clearlyphotographed
kites are often shown back-lit
so that kite structure, layering, and sailmaterial
differences are immediately
noticed. It is the nature of these materials
that every leaf is different, every shape is
variable, but to then layer and pattern the
plant material in creative ways, the magic is
revealed. Subtle shades of color, patternsupon-patterns,
and unexpected edges all
emerge to make each kite a specific and
powerful statement.
I’m drawn to several kites that are clearly
inspired by the Japanese; John’s Autumn in
Suruga, Bo Tree 8, Eucalyptus, and
Phormium Sode. But John’s more creative
forms that feature open space within the
kite form, asymmetry, and dramatic
differences in sail densities are inspiring and
thought-provoking (see Cordyline Aspect,
Disci, Falling Keys, Periwinkle Drop, and
Phormium Figures, to name a few). Through
it all though, I find myself coming back to
John’s winged, bird-like, or flying-human
kites. They are at once delicate, powerful,
evocative and graceful: Andes, Beech Indo,
Manu Pakau, Sorbus Wings, Sprinter, and
Winged Orb.
This is not a how-to book. John does not go
into detail on either material preparation or
kite construction, but there is certainly a
wealth of information that can be gleaned
from the pages of Kites, and the value of
John’s beautifully documented work is its
power of inspiration. The forms, the
materials, the ethic of recycling and reusing,
all give the kitemaker within us ideas,
techniques, and motivation to follow John
or to travel new kitemaking roads.
www.culicidaepress.com ◆
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