Life is multi-hued, sudsy, and blissful for Graham Maxwell. He’s a professional bubbleologist – a career that’s both very real and guaranteed to blow your mind. Maxwell creates spectacular bubble displays, producing ethereal creations using soap and water. From bubbles within bubbles to colossal domes that cacoon a person, Maxwell expertly conjures them all. “I first fell in love with bubbles when I was a child, just like everyone else,” he says. But for him, the novelty never faded. This whimsical pastime is now his most powerful tool to connect with people.
Over the past seven years, Maxwell has hosted bubble shows as a form of entertainment and art therapy. In particular, he uses bubbleology to assist children with autism. “It’s a very sensory, very therapeutic activity,” Maxwell explains. The beguiling colours and movements captivate people’s attention, aid focus, and create a sense of calm. With fluid hand gestures, Maxwell forms kaleidoscopic orbs and psychedelic waves. Though he never intended it, these displays also enhance children’s scientific knowledge. Understanding how bubbles can have flat sides, emit steam from within, be set on fire, and defy gravity requires an interest in chemistry.
As Africa’s only bubbleologist, Maxwell gives people the chance to learn and play simultaneously. The artist has brought bubble mania to weddings and birthdays, performed at the National Arts Festival, and even participated in protests against climate change. Wherever he goes, Maxwell’s iridescent creations bring joy. “Bubbles just remind me of the simplicity of life itself,” he says. Sometimes, happiness is ours for the making.
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