Could have sworn I had created one of these threads before, but at any rate, I cannot profess my love for Jim Henson's work enough. His creations were profoundly influential on my childhood, and I am sure many others' as well. Nevermind the incredible legacy of Sesame Street and the effect it has had on educating generations of children - the show has been translated into numerous other versions across the world, and the ideas behind it carried over into countless other programs and teaching systems. The characters he created are as recognisable names as they come, and not just for their visual appeal; it is what they stood for that lasts. Jim Henson's world was one of lifelong childhood and learning; imagination as a tool for teaching and creativity. Titles like The Muppet Show, The Dark Crystal, Labyrinth, Fraggle Rock are just some of the great worlds he introduced us to. The continuation of his work on features like The Witches, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Dinosaurs, etc., contibuted to the legacy of his genius. At a time when it seems childhood imagination is under ever more risk of giving way to technology, children's programming on television has become virtually non-existant, and the special effects industry is being replaced by computer software - Jim Henson's work is that much greater to me. While times may change, I would like to think that at least those who grew up with his creations are now continuing to spread the ideas that influenced him in the work that they do. We may not ever see young people experience the same joy over what he did in the 70s and 80s, but his legacy will live on in the creativity he inspired in others. Happy Birthday Mr. Henson. And thank you for all that you have given us. You will always be missed.
I couldn't agree more. Jim was the man. Huge influence on my life/imagination. I can't count the times I randomly shout, "Gelfling!" in that horrid Skeksis voice still to this day.
Jim was an amazingly talented person and was the backbone of my childhood. His humor and imagination was the perfect combination of genius. How better to teach a kid the difference between "near" and "far" than to have Grover demonstrate it until he collapsed? We would laugh and learn at the same time. I still remember the day Jim died; what a horrible loss. And yes, it's rather sad that the current generation of children are much more technology-focused, and many have never seen Jim's work, at least not the early stuff. That simple combination of puppets and basic repetitive learning skills was magic. Thanks for this lovely tribute to Jim's life and work. Happy Birthday, Jim!
The Muppets / Sesame Street were a big favorite in my house when we were growing-up . . . . oh, also Fraggle Rock and the Dark Crystal of course. Love, love , love Jim Henson's work. The Comic Muppet Book by The Moog Image Dump, on Flickr The Muppets by The Moog Image Dump, on Flickr The Dark Crystal by The Moog Image Dump, on Flickr The Dark Crystal pages by The Moog Image Dump, on Flickr The Dark Crystal pages by The Moog Image Dump, on Flickr The Dark Crystal pages by The Moog Image Dump, on Flickr The Dark Crystal back by The Moog Image Dump, on Flickr
This thread just made me really happy. Jim Henson's work had an amazing impact on me as a kid, watching the muppet show with my parents in the 80s, the labyrinth, etc etc. I think the episode after Jim died, was actually the first time I formed a grasp on the concept of death. Haha I think I'm still slightly traumatized! I have Miss Piggy singing "so long, good friend" burned into my memory. To this day when I teach animation I tell students to watch the muppets, so they can see how believable a lip sync can be with only two mouth positions if the character is acting at the same time! (via Richard Williams, credit where credit is due) Thank you Jim and Happy (belated) Birthday!
I just started listening to the Henson bio that was just released on his birthday. Only a few hours in but very interesting so far. He was able to accomplish so much so quickly.
I found this book recently in a charity shop for 50p . . . i had this when i was a kid so it was a treat to read it again Jim Hensons Muppets by The Moog Image Dump, on Flickr Jim Hensons Muppets by The Moog Image Dump, on Flickr Jim Hensons Muppets by The Moog Image Dump, on Flickr Jim Hensons Muppets by The Moog Image Dump, on Flickr Jim Hensons Muppets by The Moog Image Dump, on Flickr
