While most kids were battling Bowser or building Minecraft worlds, one State College fourth grader was discovering a new passion: balloon art. Eventually, Devin Christian’s early curiosity turned into Nittany Balloons, the business behind many of the colorful arches, sculptures, and displays seen around State College.

Christian’s interest in balloon art took off quickly. Throughout middle school, he attended a professional balloon camp in Las Vegas for several summers, often as the youngest person there. The experience allowed him to learn from top-tier artists and industry pros.

Then, by 14, he had launched his first business, We Are Balloons, which he later rebranded to Nittany Balloons during his freshman year of high school.

In 2019, Christian took the next step in his balloon art journey, becoming a certified balloon artist, a prestigious title held by just 3,000 people worldwide. The six-month certification process included online coursework, business documentation, sample builds, and a live exam at a convention in Florida.

Christian is proud of the certificate, not only because of the work it took to earn, but because it gives his business professional credibility and assures customers that he’s both passionate and qualified in what he does.

Today, Christian estimates that 75% to 90% of balloon work seen on campus is his. It can be spotted all over the community, from Dunkin’ grand openings to corporate displays for companies like EY.

In 2025, after years of trying to get involved, he finally contributed to THON Weekend by designing the Home for Hope display.

While he takes on a wide range of events, Christian says his favorite projects are the ones that allow full creative freedom. One Christmas, he built a 10-hour balloon train from scratch and described it as one of his most intricate pieces to date.

Another time, he spent three days crafting a giant mushroom sculpture, experimenting with different shapes until it looked just right.

“When I get to just build without strict guidelines, that’s when I have the most fun,” he said.

His dream build? A giant balloon version of the Nittany Lion.

“It would take some trial and error, especially the face, but I’ve always wanted to do it,” Christian said.

Despite the challenge, he’s excited by the idea and sees it as a way to create something truly unique for the Penn State community.

“Hopefully, someone will sponsor it and help make it happen,” Christian said.

For Christian, balloon art has always been a family affair. His mom, Cheri, owns Sweet Tooth Bakery in downtown State College and is also a certified balloon artist. The two occasionally collaborate, combining balloon installations with baked goods.

“She’s the hardest worker I know,” Christian said, adding that she’s always supported his goals and helps whenever she can.

For anyone aiming to break into balloon art, Christian’s advice is simple: start small.

“You don’t need to be super creative. Just learn the techniques, follow tutorials, and build your own style from there,” he said.

If you’re interested in booking a balloon display or seeing more of his work, a full gallery of past projects, event information, and booking details can be found on Nittany Balloon’s official website, with past projects posted on his Instagram.