Irish Contemporary Art
This month on the Ethical Edit we are focusing on Irish contemporary art using ancient methods, featuring the inspirational stories of fantastic people that are based here and that make here. This month we caught up with the very talented Helle Helsner from H2 Studio Art
Born in Copenhagen in 1968, Helle Helsner moved to Ireland in 1994 to study Fine Art at Crawford College of Art and Design, Cork. Working primarily in sculpture she began, early on in her career, to explore the inclusion of bronze casting in her practice. This led to a 2 year Masters (through research) into pre-historic casting techniques. She subsequently established her own studio practice in West Cork and since then has continued to explore the potential of combining ancient methods with her contemporary art practice while at the same time continuing her archaeological research programme.
Working alongside a Shaman in New Mexico in 2010 gave Helle a unique opportunity to fully explore the role of rituals and the use of material in pre-historic traditions. This experience proved a turning point in her practice allowing her, for the first time, to fully express her values and seek a new language for her work. This has led to a greater appreciation of nature and a practice based on a strong ecologically and sustainable approach.
In 2013 Helle began working with precious metals (i.e gold and silver) as she begain to realise a collection of bespoke fine art jewellery.
Helle,s talents seem almost endless, as well as creating stunning unique pieces of jewellery and sculpture, she is also a keen knitter, having come from a family of knitters she now incorporates it into her art practise, creating shawls and wraps in her spare time, using 100{e5c38ecb8d2d547bd120f432f48b6973fa9db73852aa4d3d6c4e9aa09ef1a122} Donegal Heather wool. We also know Helle is working on a new and exciting collection of knits to be launched in AW 17 and are really excited for the launch.
Her work can be purchased by contacting her directly on her website and a section can also be found on Baby Forest
Fun Fact: Helle,s work has been gifted to Denmark Queen Margrethem, affectionally known as Queen Daisy.
We really hope you enjoy hearing the fascinating & inspiring journey of an amazing & talented women who is following her passion.
Many thanks to
Helle for sharing her inspiring story.
Jakub Walutek for the huge amount of time and effort he took to put together this production.
And to you, for taking the time to watch this and for being a more conscious consumer.
#bethechange