Style and Craftsmanship, Art and Engineering

There is no doubt that technology is now an integral part of all our lives. But why is most technology so unattractive? Isn’t there a more aesthetic way to incorporate audio a into the home? This was the big question that gave artist Scott Varn the inspiration to combine creative design with engineering.

“I lived in an arts and crafts bungalow and hated simply sticking components on a cabinet and placing black laminate speakers on the floor. I looked for a company or products to solve the problem and was disappointed that were none to be found. While putting my mind to a creative solution, I found that many people shared my frustration and desire for a solution. It was a unfortunate void in the world of music rendering, and an obvious opportunity for a new endeavor.”

Everyone knows that Western NC is blessed with a wonderful sense of design and style that depends heavily on the skilled hands of craftsmen. But few realize that there is an association that honors this tradition and its incorporation into the home. That association is HandMade in America. To quote their mission statement “…to grow handmade economies through craft, cultural heritage and community assets. We envision a thriving region that leverages the distinctive cultural assets of its people and the spirit of community.

Harmony is honored to be part of HandMade in America. We will be displaying with a team of craftsmen, architects and designers who have created the library vignette at the North Carolina Arboretum.

We will be mixed in with carpenters, sculptors and textile artists—so Where does a bunch of AV geeks like us fit in? Well as many of you know my background is in art and I continue to keep my hands in that world in many disciplines— and I am always looking for new expressions.

We are displaying examples of how we incorporate photography or painting to create artistic speakers. Imagine great photography or artwork supported by a handcrafted frame which just happens to produce beautiful music.

Custom Speaker Design

Simply make them match the walls—sure—but why not have fun and make them art… hand acrylic painting from a member of the art guild of western NC. Or commission a local artist. We will give them the case prepped for painting and then complete the speaker driver installation and return the speaker ready to hang, with your warranty intact!

Speaker Art

The correct height for a speakers is ear level. But unfortunately that is also around eye level and the place one hangs art work. But what if your speaker were also art?

We can make speakers with a decorative frame and hidden behind speaker material with the image of your choice.

Using an image (with permission from the artist) or a family photo, we can make a speaker that decorates your home rather than detracting from it. We print the images onto special speaker cloth and stretch it like a canvas then frame it in wood, steel or whatever style that matches your decor.