Norbert Gutowski

Subject Leader, Furniture & Related Objects

Associate Fellow of the HEA

Norbert is a furniture maker - conservator with almost two decades of tutoring experience, who has also worked extensively as a fine antique furniture conservator- restorer.

He works alongside students to support and facilitate them in their projects and, more broadly, their professional aspirations. Furniture students often come from different parts of the world and Norbert's focus is on helping students unlock their potential, working in small groups.

Prior to becoming a tutor at West Dean College, for thirteen years Norbert was a fine antique furniture conservator - restorer with companies in the UK and Switzerland. Influenced in his choice of profession by his grandparent's care for their many cherished items of furniture, his initial training was a traditional three-year apprenticeship in (bespoke) furniture-making in his hometown in Germany. Seeking further opportunities for studying brought him to West Dean as a student.

"I like to encourage students to build on their own strength and together explore countless ways of making good furniture and conserving treasured objects for the enjoyment of current and future generations."

Norbert is affiliated with Icon (The Institute of Conservation) and BAFRA through the College, and is a member of the Guild of Art Scholars, Dealers and Collectors Society.

Top banner photo credit: Jack Lawson