Rocco Helmchen , born 1974 in Annaberg-Buchholz (east Germany), first studied Media Computer Science, followed by Film and Television specializing in Cinematography at the Dortmund University of applied Arts and Sciences’ Department of Design, from which he graduated in 2004.
Since then he worked as a freelance visual artist in a variety of areas, looking for a balance between art, science and entertainment.
The spectrum of his work ranges from video art, motion design and 360 cinematography to projection design for theatrical productions.
His main field of work lies in the creation of immersive 360° projections and audiovisual experiences for dome theatres (“fulldome video”), planetariums and immersive rooms. Recently he extended that field into art direction and curation for fulldome projects.
For almost two decades he collaborated closely with media artist, composer and sound-designer Johannes Kraas. Together they realized numerous dome projects ranging from planetarium feature shows and timelapse travelogues over image shows for companies to art projects.
He participated in many festivals in the US, Europe and Australia which promote these new forms of immersive audiovisual art where many of his pieces won awards.
Rocco is living and working in the Ruhr Valley in Germany.