bout the artist

Albert Alfaro Jr.'s interest in ventriloquism was sparked very early in his life. In the 60's, Albert, along with many other children, loved watching the legendary "Paul Winchell-Jerry Mahoney Show". This classic show entertained Albert, and he didn't know it then, but the curiosity it roused within him had set the ball in motion. He was mesmerized by Paul Winchell's pint sized pal, Jerry Mahoney. Albert adored the idea of making something that was inanimate, appear to be alive. It was a fascination that would follow him throughout his entire life.

At a very young age, Albert began to make his own puppets out of anything he could get his hands on. Albert's tremendous efforts toward his passion, lead him to an array of different puppets, from sock puppets to marionettes. In no time at all, Albert was experimenting with and inventing dozens of means of animation. At the age of 17, Albert made his very own ventriloquist figure, which he used for his high school graduation project later that same year.

Throughout Albert's college years, his little spare time was spent devising new ways to breathe life into his puppets. It was around this time that Albert's very first Drabbits were born. He constantly sculpted using a variety of mediums including pottery and wax-based clays. Albert took great interest in learning all aspects of ventriloquist dummy making.

Once Albert graduated from college, he went on to study medicine. Radiology in particular. Strangely, the greatest bit of information he obtained through his many years of medical school was the ins and outs of the human anatomy. This greatly helped to enhance the already lifelike appearance of his art. Albert's medical interests gradually faded away and soon thereafter he became a full time artist.

From then on, Albert supported his wife and children using all of his artistic abilities. Along the way, he has had the pleasure of experiencing many different artistic projects ranging from the construction of life-size props to sculpting for various different film productions.

To Albert, there is only one greater love than puppetry, his family. The Alfaro clan consists of his wonderful wife Maria, who in essence is the driving force behind all of his creative endeavors, his two daughters Kristina and Maria, and his two sons Anthony and Justin. All of his children share a very strong interest in some form of art. While Anthony and Justin work to hone their sculpting abilities, Maria, the youngest of the bunch is beginning to strengthen her performing skills.

Now, as a professional ventriloquist figure maker, Albert continues to strive for the highest level of excellence in every aspect of his work. His greatest joy is knowing that his legacy will live on through his children.