Passion for Precision

Wednesday, July 4, 2012

MORE FROM SMALLSPACE - THUNDERBIRDS PUPPETS FROM DUNCAN WILLIS



The smallspace show displayed UK science-fiction models at their best. And for nostalgic fans of the Gerry Anderson Supermarionation TV shows, the puppets of Duncan Willis took some beating.



Early TV shows
Duncan is seen above, with three of his replicas, Steve Zodiac, Lady Penelope, and the chauffeur Parker. In Duncan’s words: “I am a lifelong fan of Gerry Anderson's Supermarionation shows, with my first proper memory being of watching Fireball XL5 on TV, although I can just about remember watching Torchy, a Torchy annual being one of my most-read bedtime books.”


Early Anderson inspiration
Torchy the Battery Boy was the second TV series produced by Gerry Anderson. Fifty-two 13-minute episodes were made, for airing in 1958-1959. Predating Torchy were the Adventures of Twizzle, the very first Anderson series.
  

Recycled materials
Duncan adds: “I have been making puppet replicas for around six years, and like to make scratch-built props for them to sit on/in. The props are mostly made from recycled waste materials which I get from friends in the building trade. I am presently hoping to make a living as a self-employed model-maker.”










2 comments:

  1. just fantastic.
    wonderful.
    Talent.
    supreme.
    should be passing on his skill.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Have to agree with that - even better in reality.

    ReplyDelete