Featured Artist: Emil Gatev
I was born in 1971 in the Balkan Mountain town of Gabrovo, Bulgaria. I became interested in working with leather in my early twenties. By 1995 I set up a workshop and there began to turn my hobby into a profession.
In 2000 I became a member of IILG (International Internet Leathercrafters' Guild). Since then my work has become more specialized in leather carving and in the use of color and textures in leather. I have studied advanced methods of leather carving and, with help from my colleagues around the world, have been applying my skills to both traditional carving and in developing my own unique designs.
In 2004 I moved my workshop to Tryavna, a small tourist town nestled on a picturesque river in the Balkan foothills. Some of my favorite items to make are belts, billfolds, and pictures. I like to explore new techniques and tools, and to exchange ideas with other colleagues.
I have participated in countless exhibitions and craft shows in Bulgaria and have submitted some of my work in various international contests through IILG. I have won four prizes in international guild competitions. Each of my creations in leather captures a piece of my soul.
Contact Information:
Emil Gatev
7 Cpt. Diado Nikola Sq.
Tryavna 5350, BULGARIA
info@emilgatev.com
+359 888 863 459
www.EmilGatevLeathercraft.com
