First Thursdays: Helium Project – The Sound of Steel

First Thursdays: Helium Project – The Sound of Steel

Thursday 1 May, 7:30pm–9pm

DEPOT Artspace
28 Clarence Street, Devonport

Photo Credit: Josh and Rebecka Stinson 

Join us for First Thursdays in Devonport – Te Hau Kapua

Helium Project – The Sound of Steel is a suite of music composed by Nick Edgar to showcase an array of beautifully hand-crafted percussion instruments created by designer, musician and steel fabricator Gary Hunt. This live music experience is presented in support of DEPOT Artspace’s upcoming exhibition The Sound of Steel.

Music has always had a significant influence on Gary’s design aesthetic with his fabrication skills honed making industrial instruments. In the late 1970’s Gary was the drummer for the Terrorways, a crowd favourite at the infamous punk dive Zwines. Since the 1980s Gary has combined his musical and engineering backgrounds to make percussion instruments.

The instruments featuring in this show are works of art in their own right, and functioning percussion instruments, opening up wide composition opportunities to wrap around a percussive soundscape.

Devonport local Nick Edgar, leads the 7-piece Helium Project made up of talented multi-instrumentalists. Expect a visual and sonic treat as Helium Project transport the audience with their suite of neo-classical, electronic, ambient material.

Tickets: $45

7:30pm: Doors open, refreshments provided courtesy of our hospitality partner Toi Toi Wines
8-9pm: Helium Project – The Sound of Steel

About Nick Edgar

Nick is a versatile composer and multi-instrumentalist based in Devonport. With a diverse musical range spanning multiple genres, he is a co-writer for the indie-folk band Hoop and the creator and leader of the dynamic 15-piece funk ensemble, The Wonderfish Collective. His latest project, the neo-classical and electronic Helium Project, explores innovative soundscapes, and includes a show created to celebrate Matariki. Nick’s current collaboration, Sounds of Steel, is an exciting partnership with artist Gary Hunt, merging music and visual art in a unique, cutting-edge performance.

About Gary Hunt

Gary Hunt is a seasoned artisan with over 35 years of experience. Working from his self-built studio and workshop in Auckland, he creates sculptures, designs and crafts furniture, and explores experimental music. His work has been compared to that of renowned sculptor and furniture designer Harry Bertoia, with early inspiration drawn from Jean Tinguely’s kinetic art. Hunt has showcased his work in exhibitions both nationally and internationally.

The Musicians:

Nick Edgar – Flute, Synth, Percussion
Gary Hunt – Percussion
Toby Edgar – Synth, Percussion
Mark Hannington – Bass, Percussion
Cam McLean – Keys, Synth
Helen Crook – Violin
Sophie Buxton – Viola
Zoe Triggs – Percussion, Vocals

About First Thursdays

We invite you to enjoy a night out in Devonport, soak up an evening of art, culture, food and entertainment, support local businesses, and have fun. 

Click here to explore more exciting First Thursdays events happening in the village!

As a charitable organisation, we rely on donations from our creative community to support our public programming. If you would like to see more events like this, please consider donating or signing up to the DEPOT Collective membership programme to receive exclusive benefits and keep up to date with future events. We truly appreciate any and all support!

Helium Project – The Sound of Steel is presented in celebration of NZ Music Month 2025