Elena Rossi
Goalie helmets have become increasingly creative and intricate in their designs, with custom artwork and paint jobs that reflect the personalities of the players wearing them. One of the latest trends in goalie helmet design is the use of matte paint, which has become popular due to its ability to complement team uniforms both from a distance and up close. This style can be seen on the Dallas Stars and Texas Stars helmets, as well as on the Philadelphia Flyers' masks, which feature a unique design of small dots that can only be seen from certain angles. Goalie helmets have become a form of self-expression for players, with some even holding contests to design their helmets and using multiple masks in a single season.
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What You'll Learn
Matte paint's popularity
Matte paint has gained popularity in various applications, including interior design and automotive finishes. In interior design, matte paint is known for its beautiful chalky or velvety finish, making it a popular choice for interior walls, ceilings, and period and contemporary properties. Its low sheen level helps to disguise imperfections and creates a smooth, almost powdery appearance. However, it is susceptible to marks and stains and can be challenging to clean, so it is best suited for low-traffic areas.
In the automotive world, matte finish paint has also been gaining traction in recent years. It offers a unique, sophisticated, and understated aesthetic that sets vehicles apart from traditional glossy finishes. The non-reflective surface of matte paint gives cars a sleek and modern look, attracting automotive enthusiasts seeking something different. Additionally, matte paint is known for its ability to hide minor scratches, swirl marks, and body imperfections better than glossy finishes, maintaining the vehicle's overall appearance for longer.
Matte paint finishes in automobiles also offer functional benefits, such as improved heat dissipation compared to glossy finishes. This advantage can be particularly useful in hot climates, helping to keep the car's surface temperature cooler. Furthermore, advancements in paint technology have led to the development of sealants like graphene and ceramic coatings, which enhance the protection and longevity of matte automotive paint. These coatings provide a durable, transparent layer that guards against environmental damage, scratches, and stains, making it easier to maintain the distinctive matte finish.
The popularity of matte paint in goalie helmets specifically has also been noted. Goalie masks with matte paint jobs, such as those of the Dallas Stars and Philadelphia Flyers, offer a unique visual appeal. The matte finish can complement the team uniforms, providing a stylish and functional design. Additionally, the low reflectivity of matte paint can reduce the glare experienced by goalies, potentially enhancing their performance.
Overall, the popularity of matte paint can be attributed to its distinct aesthetic, ability to disguise imperfections, and, in the case of automotive paint, its functional advantages and improved durability with modern coatings.
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Custom designs
Gunnarsson, a talented artist from Sweden, has been painting goalie masks for over 27 years, infusing each design with storytelling and creativity. His work extends beyond the NHL, as he accommodates requests from goalies worldwide, offering a revolutionary artwork pricing program that considers the complexity of the design. Gunnarsson's artistic prowess is evident in his ability to bring to life a diverse range of themes, from glow-in-the-dark logos to Lego figures and popular TV characters. His designs have added a fun and playful element to the sport, with goalies expressing their excitement about the process.
Another notable artist in the goalie mask painting industry is Lambert, a retired motorcycle racer and paint salesman who paints masks for Arizona State. Lambert is a relative newcomer to the world of NHL goalie mask artists but has already made his mark with his unique designs.
The process of creating custom designs involves close collaboration between the artist and the goalie. Artists like Gunnarsson pride themselves on their versatility, accommodating various artistic styles, from scary to photorealistic to cartoonish. The designs may incorporate the team's logo, colours, or other personal touches that reflect the goalie's interests and personality.
In recent years, there has also been a rise in contests where goalies or teams invite fans to submit designs for their masks. This interactive approach adds a layer of fan engagement and creates a unique connection between the team and its supporters. The winning design is then brought to life by professional artists, ensuring a seamless blend of creativity and the goalie's preferences.
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The evolution of goalie masks
Goalie masks have evolved from simple protective gear to canvases of self-expression for the players wearing them. They have become some of the most creative pieces of artwork in the world of sports. From simple designs to intricate details, goalie helmets allow wearers to display their personalities like no other piece of sports equipment.
The earliest masks were borrowed from other sports, such as the fencing mask worn by Elizabeth Graham, the first goalie to wear a mask in a game for the Queens University hockey team in 1927. In the NHL, Clint Benedict began wearing a leather face guard to protect a broken nose in the 1930s, but he eventually stopped as it obstructed his vision. In 1936, Japanese goalie Teiji Honma wore a crude mask, similar to those worn by baseball catchers, at the Winter Olympics.
In 1959, Jacques Plante became the first NHL goalie to wear a full mask during a game after being struck in the face in the first period. Plante's fiberglass mask was snugly fitted to his face, providing effective protection against shots. Within 10 years, most NHL goalies had adopted a similar style, and by 1970, few goalies were without a mask. Over time, the fiberglass mask evolved to become more protective and comfortable, with internal padding and new styles to suit goalies' preferences.
In the 1970s, manufacturers began experimenting with a wire cage in front of the fiberglass shell, leading to the modern combo mask style. This combination provided better impact dispersion, as the wire cage absorbed the impact of the puck and redirected it away from the goalie's head. Despite the availability of more protective options, some goalies continued to prefer the helmet/cage combo, such as Dominic Hasek, Dan Cloutier, and Tim Thomas.
Today, goalie masks feature intricate designs and custom paint jobs that reflect the personalities of the players. Artists like Dave Gunnarsson, also known as DaveArt, have become well-known for their work in the industry, with Gunnarsson responsible for the paint jobs of close to 60% of NHL goalies in a typical season. The increasing accessibility of custom helmets and advancements in technology, such as the use of vinyl wraps, have made unique designs more attainable for amateur and youth goalies as well.
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Artists behind the designs
Goalie helmets are increasingly becoming a creative canvas for the players, allowing them to express themselves and showcase their personalities. The intricate designs and finer details on the helmets have become a unique window into the world of the players. This has given rise to a new breed of artists who specialise in designing and painting these helmets.
One of the most renowned artists in this field is Dave Gunnarsson, also known as DaveArt. With over 27 years of experience, Gunnarsson has played a pivotal role in transforming goalie masks from plain canvases to stunning works of art. He is known for his versatility and ability to bring any idea to life, whether it's scary, photorealistic, or cartoonish. He has worked with numerous NHL players, including Johan Hedberg, Ben Bishop, Frederik Andersen, and Cam Talbot. Gunnarsson's quick turnaround times and efficient processes have made him a favourite among players and equipment managers alike.
Another notable artist is Todd Miska, who designed and painted the iconic eagle mask for Ed Belfour. The eagle became synonymous with Belfour's brand and was featured on various merchandise items, such as mini masks. Miska's design not only showcase Belfour's personality but also created a strong visual association with the player.
Lambert, a retired motorcycle racer, is a relative newcomer to the world of NHL goalie mask artists. Painting masks in his spare time, Lambert brings a unique perspective to the field. He is known for his work with Arizona State and has designed masks for players like Philipp Grubauer and Chris Driedger.
Other artists worth mentioning include Jason Livery, who previously worked with the St. Louis Blues, and Derrick Gilders of Gilders Design, who has created masks for Jeff Smith and Hrenak. The increasing popularity of vinyl wraps on helmets has also opened up opportunities for youth and amateur players to customise their helmets without incurring the high costs of custom paint jobs.
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The process of painting
Goalie helmets are increasingly becoming a creative outlet for players, with many choosing intricate designs that reveal hidden details up close. This shift has led to a growing demand for custom helmet designs, with some opting for matte paint jobs that complement their uniforms, such as the Dallas Stars' matte helmets.
Creating a custom goalie helmet involves several steps, from designing to painting. Here is a detailed breakdown of the process:
- Designing: The design process typically involves collaboration between the artist and the goalie. Artists like David Gunnarsson pride themselves on their versatility, accommodating various artistic styles, from scary to photorealistic to cartoonish. During this phase, the artist and goalie work together to conceptualize the artwork, incorporating personal touches that reflect the goalie's personality or interests.
- Preparation: Before painting, the helmet surface needs to be prepared. This may involve cleaning and sanding the helmet to create a smooth base for the paint application. Some artists might also apply a primer to ensure better paint adhesion.
- Painting: The painting process can vary depending on the design's complexity. Basic designs may involve using paintbrushes or spray paint to create the desired effect. However, for intricate designs, artists often use airbrushing techniques to achieve fine details. Airbrushing allows for precise control over the paint application, resulting in intricate patterns, gradients, and shading.
- Curing and Finishing: After the paint has been applied, the helmet typically needs time to cure, ensuring that the paint dries and hardens properly. This process may vary depending on the paint type and environmental conditions. Once the paint is cured, the artist may apply a clear coat or sealant to protect the artwork and add a glossy or matte finish.
- Quality Inspection: Before delivering the helmet to the goalie, the artist will inspect the final product to ensure it meets their standards and the client's expectations. This includes checking for any imperfections, ensuring the paint has adhered correctly, and verifying that the design accurately represents the agreed-upon concept.
- Delivery and Feedback: Finally, the custom-painted helmet is delivered to the goalie. The artist may seek feedback from the client to ensure their satisfaction. This feedback loop helps artists improve their craft and maintain relationships with their clients.
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Frequently asked questions
The new matte painting on goalie helmets was inspired by the desire to create a design that would complement the team's uniforms, both from a distance and up close. It provides a sleek and modern aesthetic while also allowing for intricate details and personal touches that reflect the goalie's personality and interests.
There are several renowned artists in the world of goalie mask painting, including David Gunnarsson (DaveArt), who is known for his intricate and creative designs, and Lambert, a retired motorcycle racer who paints masks in his spare time. Goalies also often collaborate with multiple artists and may switch artists when changing teams.
Popular design elements vary from simple yet intricate animal designs, such as the classic lion or tiger, to more modern and playful approaches, including glow-in-the-dark art, Lego figures, and pixelated portraits of popular culture icons. Goalies often incorporate elements that reflect their personalities, interests, or even their favourite actors and TV characters.
