Soldered brass, 19 x 13 x 13, 2008. Winner: First Prize, Headdress Category, Wearable Art Awards, 2009. Ryan McCourt's "Helmet of Laocoön" draws upon the myth of Laocoön and his tragic punishment by Athena, blending classical references with imaginative, surrealist design. The central feature of the helmet is a large brass whale, which commands attention with … Continue reading The Helmet of Laocoön
Sculpture
The Helm of the Artist
Soldered brass, 10 x 11 x 11, 2008. Ryan McCourt’s "Helm of the Artist" presents a rich interplay of symbols that speak to both artistic identity and broader philosophical themes. The most prominent feature is the weather vane atop the helmet, with the compass points N, E, S, W. These letters reference McCourt’s North Edmonton … Continue reading The Helm of the Artist
The Helm of the Father
Soldered brass, 2008. Ryan McCourt's The Helm of the Father (2008) is a deeply personal sculpture that incorporates biographical elements through symbolic references. Made of soldered brass, the helmet’s design combines both naturalistic and musical motifs, reflecting the artist’s father’s passions and expertise. The prominent bird imagery, with wings and talons extending from the helmet, … Continue reading The Helm of the Father
The Helm of the Mother
Soldered brass, 2008. Ryan McCourt's The Helm of the Mother (2008) is a deeply personal homage, combining elements that reflect his mother’s life and passions. The trefoil emblem of the Canadian Girl Guides, prominently displayed at the top of the helm, speaks to her longtime dedication to the organization, highlighting her role as a leader … Continue reading The Helm of the Mother
The Junk of the Dead
Soldered brass, 15 x 19 x 12, 2008. The Junk of the Dead is a ship built out of what the dead leave behind. “Junk” carries both of its senses in the title: the Chinese sailing vessel, and the discarded household goods that outlast their owners. The sculpture is a junk made of junk, and … Continue reading The Junk of the Dead
