Golden Grahams

The Golden Grahams hot air balloon is a brilliant display of artistry, showcasing Charles Markert's exceptional talent and precision as a hand-painting master. The bright yellow balloon features the iconic Golden Grahams cereal logo, with a detailed and realistic depiction of the cereal bowl. Each piece of cereal is meticulously painted, with lifelike texture and color, making it instantly recognizable and incredibly impactful as an aerial advertisement. The clarity and vibrancy of Markert's work are awe-inspiring, especially considering the challenging, curved surface of the balloon's envelope.

When General Mills decided to use hot air balloons as a unique advertising platform, they turned to Minnesota pilot and balloon dealer Matt Wiederkehr, who recommended Markert for the job. Markert, then stepping into uncharted territory, took on this innovative project, unknowingly launching himself into a new and highly successful art career. This Golden Grahams balloon was the first of about 50 stunning hot air balloons Markert would hand-paint, cementing his legacy in this unconventional art medium.

Notably, Matt Wiederkehr, who played a crucial role in connecting Markert to this groundbreaking project, is also celebrated as one of the original 13 pilots of the world-famous Albuquerque Hot Air Balloon Fiesta. Together, Wiederkehr's vision and Markert's artistry transformed advertising into an art form that captivated audiences both on the ground and in the sky.