Leo Pipes
According to confirmed information Leon du Preez has passed away untimely.
Leon as an artist:
"I practice as an artist. My first full one man exhibition was held in the Ann Bryant Art Gallery. This was a group show of graduates who completed the B-Tech degree through the Port Elizabeth Technikon. My past theme had focused on the homeless isolated individuals residing in the area of Southernwood. At that moment in my life, I felt it was necessary to use my art as a vehicle to express deeply embedded issues and emotions of my own by illustrating individuals who were in very trying and unfortunate circumstances. I have since changed my activities and interests and have become more involved with the ocean as means of relaxation and meditation. My latest works are related to capturing the multifaceted world of the ocean, trying to illuminate its compelling mystery."
For at least six years he has held the position as curator of the Ann Bryant Art Gallery in East London, SA.
He got started as a pipemaker around 2001 under the tutelage of former police detective and now pipemaker Johan Slabbert (→ Jobert) who became his fatherly friend. Mainly African woods such as Black Hookthorn and Wild Olive are used.
Leo - Pipes from Africa:
"Leon du Preez (Leo) - Pleased to meet you." These were my very first words upon meeting Johan Slabbert aka "Snakes".
My very first impression! Incredible, surprised, astonished to observe his creation of a beautiful tobacco pipe from a wild olive tree (South African wood).
Very soon I became a self employed apprentice to Jobert whom willingly became my tutor in pipe making, thereby satisfying my desire to also become a real pipe maker instead of the bamboo pipes which I made during my school years.
I've never looked back since the beginning of 2001 and here I am today with my drill press and disk sander making LEO pipes, which originated from http://www.jobertpipes.co.za
All my pipes are freehand style utilising only a drill press and a disk sander.
My pipes are also buffed to a shine and not varnished.
I share a working environment with Jobert in Goodwood, Cape Town, South Africa. I also however have a fully equipped workshop at my home in Goodwood, as a backup facility for Jobert.
I hope that you will enjoy the smoking of my handmade pipes, as much as I enjoyed making them."
Leon du Preez Roodekranz Weg 18 Goodwood 7460 South Africa Tel.: +27 21 5910127 E-mail: mailto:leo@leopipes.co.za