The Gristy is an award Twist & Shout gives each year to a balloon artist that demonstrates the values of the late David Grist. He was a mentor, friend, talented artist, and teacher from England. The core values he had were Inspiration, Innovation, Friendship, and Joy towards all his fellow artists. The award has been presented in the past to:

Don Caldwell

Royal Sorell

John Holmes

Ralph Dewey

Robbie Furman

Ken Stillman

"Stretch" Clendennen

Balloon HQ (Larry Moss, Mark Balzer and Sheena Beaverson)

Guido Verhoeff (x2)

Debbie Stevens

Alberto Nava

Kathy Landess

Todd Neufeld - 2023

Dave Brenn - 2024

Patty Sorell - 2025