Kevin Doberstein
Contemporary Sculptor

Kevin Doberstein, born in April 1958 in Medford, Wisconsin, is a multidisciplinary artist specializing in contemporary wood sculpture.

Growing up immersed in the rugged environment of northern Wisconsin's logging and sawmill industry, Doberstein developed a deep appreciation for the natural beauty of wood and its expressive potential.

His work explores themes of warmth, spirituality, and resilience, blending biomorphic abstraction with stylized Western-inspired forms.

Doberstein’s sculptures often utilize sustainable wood species, chosen for their unique grain patterns and contrasting coloration, sometimes enhanced with copper metal infusions to create striking visual effects.

His artistic process reflects a balance between innovation and tradition, transforming dream-inspired sketches into one-of-a-kind sculptures that convey personal narratives and universal emotions.

Exhibited in juried shows such as Arrivals and Departures 2024 and Art by the Foot 2024, Doberstein’s work has been recognized for its craftsmanship, originality, and ability to evoke a sense of harmony and introspection.

Through his practice, he continues to push the boundaries of technique and expression, offering viewers an experience that is both meditative and inspiring.

Affiliations:

National Sculpture Society.

Artist Statement;

My main aspiration when creating abstract art is to stimulate the breath of life both in me and the viewer. There are occasions when I see a certain reflection or feeling in an art piece I created that echoes what I was experiencing at the time. I enjoy the outdoors, especially in the forest. I like to spend time outside to keep myself fresh with new ideas and themes for that next art piece. It keeps me in harmony with my creative spirit. I like to use bold colors to inspire and energize the soul deep within and use dynamic motion in sculpture to incite emotions in the viewer of my art so they can inspire their thoughts and spirit.


My favorite medium is wood. I enjoy working with material rich in deep swirls of growth rings in the wood. It gives the piece character and makes it interesting to view. My favorite tools are simple hand tools I use to carve wood sculptures. When I’m developing an art piece I will observe the natural patterns, and how the light affects them and try to use their features to enhance it. I like to use dark colors with light colors to contrast and stimulate. I also use dramatic sweeping motions in sculpture.


Experience is the greatest teacher. My favorite woods to work with are Northern Cherry, White Ash, and Black Walnut. I love the scent and grain patterns they can give you. My favorite metal is Copper because of its soft qualities and the beautiful coloration you can achieve with it.


I will begin a piece first by setting it on the studio table and studying its shape and patterns. This can be a couple of days to a year. I know it is finished when I step back and enjoy looking at it and feel that it needs no more work. When my latest art creation is going well I feel a sense of happiness that runs deep into my soul.