Artist Statement

My name is Albert Kiebert. I live and work in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia.

   I'm the son of a woodworker, but did not have any interest in woodworking while growing up. It wasn’t until 1996 when I acquired a lot of my father’s equipment upon his retirement and relocation south that I started working with wood. After several “flat” projects I was turned on to Woodturning. A friend was making wood pens and selling them at work. I figured I could do that! but, I did not own a lathe. I found a way to manufacture pens using a Rotor and was up and “turning”. As soon as I sold enough pens, I bought my first lathe and was able to appreciate turning a lot better!

  I was hooked and now own three different size lathes and lots of accessories.  A lot of my time when not at work is spent making items for Arts and Craft shows. On average I attend 12 shows per year, mostly in Virginia and North Carolina. This outlet has been a good way to personally see others work and get a feel for what the public is interested in. I also get to meet a variety of talented woodturners from all over.

  I am essentially self-taught. I have been greatly influenced by the many turners that so generously share their work and knowledge, at club meetings, symposiums and on the Internet. Great sites like the AAW forums, The World of Wood Turners and Wood Central, have been invaluable to my turning career.

  I haven't found what you might call my signature style yet. I am not sure that I want to specialize at this time. I enjoy the diversity, and each piece is a new challenge. The ability to enhance the beauty of what nature gives you is very fulfilling. Being able to show others what hides ‘beneath the bark” has been most satisfying.