Damien Zane Helms | Space Management & Arts Administration

Damien Zane Helms

Space Management & Arts Administration Professional

(817)614-1738 dante@sogothco.com East Point, GA

Professional Summary

Highly accomplished and versatile professional with a comprehensive background in space management, client relations, and arts administration. Proven ability to oversee complex operations, maximize revenue through strategic rentals and business development, and lead technical production for diverse events. As the Founder of an experimental artistic collective rooted in “Radical Southern Hospitality,” I specialize in providing “Wrap Around Artistic and Administrative Support for Legacy Creation and Management,” and Artist Representation. Adept at fostering strong relationships with clients and stakeholders, optimizing administrative workflows, and providing dedicated support in various professional and personal capacities. Eager to apply a unique blend of technical expertise, administrative acumen, and a deep understanding of human behavior to a dynamic and community-focused environment.

Skills

Space & Arts Administration

  • Space Management
  • Arts Administration
  • Event Coordination
  • Non-profit Management
  • Exhibit Curation
  • Grant Writing
  • Strategic Partnerships

Technical & Operations

  • Technical Production
  • HVAC/Electrical Systems
  • Preventative Maintenance
  • Workflow Optimization
  • P&L Analysis
  • POS Systems

Client Relations & Advocacy

  • Client Relations
  • Contract Negotiation
  • Team Leadership
  • Disability Advocacy
  • ADLs/IADLs Support
  • Resource Navigation
  • Radical Southern Hospitality

Business & Brand Development

  • Marketing Strategy
  • Brand Development
  • FOH Operations
  • Administrative Support
  • Budget Tracking
  • Founder, Artist Representation

Experience

Founder, Southern Gothic Company LLC

(2022 – Current)

An Underground Experimental Artistic Collective (Co-op, aspiring 501(c)(3))

  • Established and directed an innovative artistic collective focused on crafting profound, immersive autobiographical exhibits and events.
  • Cultivated the core concept of ‘Radical Southern Hospitality’ to integrate diverse artistic mediums and create unparalleled audience experiences.
  • Developed and implemented ‘Wrap Around Artistic and Administrative Support for Legacy Creation and Management,’ ensuring visionary projects are meticulously documented, preserved, and strategically positioned for lasting impact.
  • Spearheaded Artist Representation, empowering individual artists to navigate the complexities of the art world.
  • Forged strategic partnerships, pursued grant funding, and engaged in client projects to expand reach and uphold commitment to artistic excellence and community well-being.
  • Managed strategic vision, artistic direction, and comprehensive operational oversight for the collective.

Resident Artist, Theatrical Outfit

2015 – 2019
  • Directed all aspects of building maintenance and historic preservation for The Balzer Theatre at Herren’s, ensuring adherence to preservation guidelines and safety codes.
  • Managed all building systems (HVAC, electrical, plumbing, fire suppression, security), ensuring optimal performance, energy efficiency, and compliance.
  • Developed and executed strategies to maximize rental revenue for theatre spaces, managing the entire rental lifecycle from lead generation to contract negotiation and event coordination.
  • Served as primary client liaison, ensuring exceptional service and seamless integration of external events with theatre operations and historic building policies.
  • Led all electrical and lighting aspects for professional theatrical productions, overseeing system installation, maintenance, and safe operation.
  • Supervised and trained electrics crews, maintaining strict adherence to NEC, OSHA, and theatrical industry safety standards.

Disability Support Assistant & Advocate, Private Clients

2010 – Current
  • Provided compassionate and tailored assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs), including meal preparation and medication reminders.
  • Successfully assisted clients in understanding, applying for, and maintaining disability-related benefits (e.g., Social Security Disability, Medicare/Medicaid).
  • Acted as a crucial liaison for healthcare coordination, facilitating communication with medical professionals and ensuring adherence to treatment plans.
  • Maintained meticulous and confidential documentation of services, progress, and communications, ensuring clear and consistent communication with clients and families.

Freelance Educator Support Consultant

Contract & Project-Based Engagements
  • Managed complex calendars, appointments, and project timelines for educators and departmental teams, ensuring optimal time allocation.
  • Streamlined administrative workflows, including developing efficient filing systems and optimizing resource allocation for educational programs.
  • Drafted, edited, and distributed critical communications, reports, presentations, and course materials, ensuring accuracy and professional delivery.
  • Facilitated seamless communication and collaboration between different departments or teams to ensure cohesive project execution and service delivery.

Freelance Restaurant Consultant (FOH & Brand Dev)

Contract & Project-Based Engagements
  • Collaborated with owners and chefs to define and refine restaurant concepts, unique selling propositions, and brand narratives.
  • Assessed current Front of House (FOH) operations, providing actionable recommendations for efficiency improvements, service flow, and guest satisfaction.
  • Developed and implemented comprehensive FOH training programs covering service standards, guest relations, and POS system proficiency.

Education

Emory University

Atlanta, GA

B.S. Psychology

University of North Georgia

Dahlonega, GA

A.S. Psychology