Ben Zimmerman

"re-connecting with spinning after a hiatus due to injuries." · View
active 10 months ago

Base

Name

Ben Zimmerman

Type of Artist

Spins Flags, Spins Poi, Spins Fire


Home page

http://facebook.com/zeroblue76


Location

Tampa

Region

Florida

My History

How long have you been flagging? How did you get started?

I got started with a 10-minute late night crash course from an acquaintance in Cincinnati sometime in 1999 i think. I was a “closet flagger” and didn’t put much into it until 2003 when I met Pedro, who encouraged me to go public.


What was your first flagging experience?

South Beach Miami New Year’s 1999 at Salvation is where I finally worked up the nerve to ask a flagger about what he was doing. He handed me his flags to try, and I’m quite sure I made a fool of myself. Ultimately I could get my right hand going, but the left simply refused to cooperate.


What was one of your best flagging experiences?

My 3 (-ish) minute performance in Isa Isaac’s class at the 2006 Dallas Flagging Workshop. Until that Sunday afternoon, I always had a mental dialog with myself while spinning. Everything I did was thought out a few beats in advance. I would hear the music but was always hyperconscious of my surroundings. After a very profound and emotionally challenging workshop class, I feel I finally got the “click” and stopped thinking. Instead of me telling the flags what to do, the music guided them instead.


Who has inspired or taught you?

Phillip Bryan is a never-ending source of inspiration in flow, creation, and style. More importantly, he inspires me as a person by his kindness, patience, and passion. Every single spinner I’ve ever met has taught me something about myself and about the art.


Do you make your own sets? Can you describe what kind you make?

I have never purchased a set of flags. My first two sets were made from whatever soft fabric I could find. After finding SpinTribe on Yahoo and speaking with Don Baker, I began tie-dyeing. I don’t make them often, but I tend to lean towards silk, though recently I’ve been interested in learning to use a serger and making paneled flags from nylon or polyester.


Where do you often like to flag?

Tampa doesn’t really have a big flagging scene. I may actually be one of a small handful here or even the only one, so I usually spin with my friends at their house.


What are your favorite types of flags to work with, and why?

Different music and moods call for different kinds of flags. I enjoy spinning fast or slow. I really enjoy spinning with dyed patterns or fine designs, especially when spinning more slowly and with silk. I like solid colors and nylon for a faster spin.


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  • Avatar Image
    Ryan Wilcox : September 13, 2007

    Ben I am so excited about the workshop in Tampa. I am coming to visit a friend for my b-day and will be there with bells on. What a treat to be making flags for my vacation/celebration. Was just hoping to flag on the beach….Awesome am very excited…have to work on my flow….rock on
    Ryan Wilcox


  • Avatar Image
    visitor : August 23, 2006

    Cristianito:
    You are, by far and away, my favorite flaggot. I’d lick you inappropriately in public any day of the week.


  • Avatar Image
    Victor Mauro : March 10, 2005

    Just wanted to say Hi and tell you that I am pleased that you and I have crossed paths. I look forward to a long and Happy Friendship with you. Please take care of yourself as I treasure my future memories with you.

    All my best

    Victor


  • Avatar Image
    Don Baker : July 12, 2004

    Beautiful moves Ben!

    Hugs,

    Don


  • Avatar Image
    Phillip Bryan : July 12, 2004

    Welcome, Ben, the pictures look great!