Helma Raycher

Helma Raycher is an artist and woodcarver born in West Berlin, Germany. From a very young age, she recalls a love of drawing and watercolor painting. Self-taught, she has always been drawn to realism. She brings with her a rich German heritage of craftsmanship, which she has combined with an American love of the outdoors and a passion for travel.

She has lived in Enumclaw for nearly 30 years. Today, she works in both oils and acrylics, creating paintings known for their intricate detail and exceptional realism.

Enjoy her paintings inspired by local scenes around Enumclaw and Mount Rainier, as well as from her travels throughout Europe. Keep an eye out for new work inspired by her most recent travels to Africa—coming soon.

In her woodcarvings, Helma designs each piece herself, hand-carving them from basswood. She enhances detail with wood burning, solders feet from brazing rods when needed, and uses glass eyes to achieve lifelike realism. Each piece is then finished with meticulous hand painting.

Her work has been displayed and sold throughout the United States.

Helma also offers fun, lively, and informative painting classes at the Arts Alive Studio. Classes are available for beginners through advanced students, with each participant encouraged to work on their own individual project. Instructions include composition, color mixing, and application. Class sizes are kept small to ensure personalized attention. Inquire at the gallery for more information.