Bryan Helm

Bryan Helm has always been fascinated with sound and all things musical.

As a largely self-taught musician he seeks out alternative and avant-garde variations in technique and style while also respecting ties to traditional forms. His formal training in the musical world includes a very short but insightful stint as a college student, where he noted immediately that he did not wish to become a teacher of music. In 1985 he attended the first Guitarcraft Course held in Charles Town West Virginia, and has participated in courses there and in California. He and musical collaborator Dave Stafford met at a Guitarcraft course in 1988, and together created a series of recordings.

This "techno-primitive" style has also been central to the mosaic tile sculptural pieces he has composes with his wife Sarajane. Whether the emphasis is on embellishing a musical instrument or a child's wagon, the goal is to use materials including polymer clay, glass, and wire to create a new and unique texture and look for a familiar form.

It takes many hours to carefully assemble each collaged piece using existing tiles and specially fabricated components. Each item is individually glued into place and later given several coats of Varathane, a polyurethane sealer with UV protection. This attention to detail helps ensure the works are both beautiful and durable.

Sculptural pieces or installations for public and private spaces can be commissioned.
Details vary according to each project.

   


updated March 2007