Andy Dobos; Artist, Naturalist, Mentor
I grew up in rural Connecticut in a family that prized self sufficiency and had a history of relying on the land to meet many basic needs. After college and a few false starts in finding a career I returned to my childhood dreams of learning wilderness skills. Through many mentors and even more time alone puzzling things out I gained a high level of competence in many of these skills, particularly friction fire making. At an early point in my quest I discovered that sharing these skills and the new found freedom and self reliance I felt must be passed on to become fully realized.
I now have nearly 20 years of experience teaching and mentoring Nature connection and wilderness skills to all ages. My students have described me as kind, gentle and an important supporter in their lives. Providing a safe place for students to take risks, try new things and to let go of the idea of failure is important to me. So is the celebration of hurdles crossed and successes won.
Expertize
Accomplishments
A certificate of Advanced Completion for White Pine Programs Tracking Apprenticeship and a Level III Track and Sign Certification from Cybertracker Conservation.
Accomplishments
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Sculpture from Montserrat College of Art in Beverly Massachusetts.
Accomplishments
Former Emergency Medical Technician and currently certified in Wilderness First Aid. I have significant experience in interviewing in medical emergencies.
Accomplishments
Facilitated many workshops at the New England Primitive Skills Gathering, the Maine Primitive Gathering, the Cattail Gathering, the Dawnland Gathering, White Memorial Conservation Center and the Institute for American Indian Studies as well as for other events and organizations.