Eli Helman Ink, West Hampton, MA
Self-taught artist Eli Helman (b. 1978) spent his early years on the East Coast before moving to Tucson, Arizona in his early 20’s. Motivated by blank walls in his studio apartment and a fascination with the landscapes and wildlife of the American West, he began experimenting with pencil sketching.
Upon returning east a few years later, he discovered Micron pens. Since then he has spent thousands of hours meticulously crafting highly detailed ink drawings. Emphasizing intricately drawn lines and patterns, he explores eclectic subjects through a blend of whimsical and thought provoking imagery. Inspired by music, humor, travel, nature, science and history, he hopes viewers will find something new — or at least have a good chuckle — every time they gaze upon his work.
All original works are drawn by hand with Micron pens on paper. Some pieces take over 200 hours to complete. Since 2010 he has been a full-time artist traveling around the country showing his work at art festivals. He lives in Western Massachusetts.