The Horrid Beauty

Juha Arvid Helminen is a Finnish costume designer/photographer that has a unique way of working with horror and beauty.

Inspired by the works of artist  H.R. Giger (alien series) and the writings of Clive Barker (Hellraiser series), Helminen’s collection of photographs called “The Shadow People” brings upon a definite alluring appeal to the senses while invoking a chill down your spine. The Shadow People seems to dive into the glamorous features of medieval European royalty, the drone-like nature of the Axis empire during World War II, and fetich like uniforms. Even with these historic and also religious references, Helminen takes these influences and blends them with a hint of horror. Beauty is definitely in the eyes of the beholder as Helminen’s subjects in his photography are faceless and emotionless, yet they bring upon many mixed emotions to the viewer. Helminen’s artistic skills do not end with just the photographs as he is also the designer and crafter of the costumes in the photos as well. Helminen offers his photographs as posters for fans to purchase and uses the money to buy materials for his costumes in his photographs.

You can check out Juha Arvid Helminen’s work at his MySpace.