Local Minneapolis Artist making • Wood Art • Painting • Custom Pieces

Meet Alfie

Alfonso's dream was to be an artist. He earned a spot at a prestigious art school to study as a painter and wood sculptor — until his 2-year-old son was in a serious accident just before finishing his program. He left school immediately and spent the next 8 years working as a custom woodworker and craftsman to cover his son's medical expenses through multiple reconstructive surgeries. Thankfully, his son eventually recovered, but Alfonso had to give up his dream for his family.

Years later, Alfonso and his family emigrated from Ecuador seeking asylum when his wife's storefront was looted after refusing to pay for "protection" from a local gang. They left everything behind for the chance at a safer life. Today, they hold EAD work permits, are gainfully employed, have an active asylum case moving through proper legal channels, and are deeply rooted in their church and the Twin Cities Latino community.

In Alfie's free time, he makes incredible artwork — his favorite pieces blend South American techniques with traditional imagery of his favorite state: Minnesota. This eventually sparked the idea to find a way for Alfie to make art for people and support his family’s legal fees!

So we reached out to two of our Northeast neighbors: Siwek's Lumber and D&B Hardwoods and told them Alfie's story and showed off his work. We figured people would like the idea, but the response was heartwarming…

Siwek's donated $2,000+ in hardwood lumber and D&B donated over $1,000 in industrial milling and all sawdust disposal. As a result of our gracious Northeast neighbors who jumped right in to help, Alfonso is now we’re stocked up to create art once again!

Every dollar from commissions goes directly to Alfonso and his family to help cover their legal fees. Pricing is donation-based, reflecting the time each piece takes to make. More info to come on once we figure out how to structure a fair compensation for Alfonso's time to make each workpiece.