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Brownell returns to Nassau Street after public support for balloon art

Back by popular demand, balloon artist Arnold Brownell returned to Nassau Street Saturday.

Seated in front of Great Impressions Clothing Company, Brownell was busy creating multi-colored balloon figures for fans of all ages. As children and parents alike smiled at his work, Brownell explained, "The things I do, no one else in the world does."

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Last fall, Brownell's work on Nassau Street was the object of much opposition from the Princeton Borough government, which considered changing its peddling ordinances to prevent Brownell from conducting business as usual, according to Friday's Princeton Packet.

Brownell said Borough officials realized he was acting in accordance with all laws and that they would not benefit from attacks on an artist who had the support of the community. The support of the people was important because, Brownell said, "If no one takes your side you have no win."

Despite the hassle, Brownell said he only benefitted from the Borough's attention. "I got nothing but good publicity from it," he explained. Brownell said throughout the conflict, he was continually supported by members of the community.

Brownell spent part of the winter holiday season working at MarketFair shopping center. During his shifts at MarketFair, Brownell said "hundreds of people" asked when he would be returning to Nassau Street.

"I have a following like you wouldn't even believe," he said. Both MarketFair and Quakerbridge Mall have contacted Brownell about future events, he said. Brownell is scheduled to entertain guests at an Easter egg hunt at the Governor's Mansion April 5.

Brownell has also been hired by the Class of 1978 to do a project for its upcoming reunion. The work will be a ring of orange and black balloons, approximately 200 feet in circumference and 100 feet high, he said.

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"If the weather is nice, it will float about 200 to 300 feet up in the air," Brownell added. According to Brownell, his work on the project "will more or less be for free," because he will be paid $3,000 for his work but will spend approximately $2,500 on supplies. According to Brownell, he usually earns approximately $75 per hour, but this income all comes in the form of tips, in accordance with Borough regulations.

Brownell said his work for Reunions and the Easter egg hunt will be videotaped. Qualitex Balloons, one of the largest balloon companies in the world, has asked Brownell to make a video of his work, he said.

The Reunions project may also provide Brownell with more business connections because alumni from all over the country will be able to view his work, he said.

"A smile from a little kid is great, but respect from (others) is money in the bank," Brownell explained.

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Brownell said he has no definite future plans beyond Reunions. "I don't plan anything; I just let it happen," he said.

Brownell explained that he could secure more work by traveling and promoting his talents, but instead he stays in Princeton because "the people come to me." By working continuously, all of his time and energy can be spent creating his colorful sculptures, Brownell said.