Alan Sweeney has been growing and crafting on gourds for over ten years, but it wasn't until he learned to chip carve on them about five years ago that he found his real niche. He began teaching family and friends and was soon receiving teaching requests from people who had seen his work, including requests from both the Idaho and the Washington State Gourd Societies.

Alan is a member in good standing of the American Gourd Society and several of its state chapters. He has served for several years on the board of directors for the Idaho Gourd Society, and is currently serving as President.  As a retired American Gourd Society Certified Master Judge, Alan's credentials qualify him to judge any show that is in accordance with the standards of the American Gourd Society. He has authority to hold training to certify other American Gourd Society judges.

Alan is a welder by trade. Gourd art is his hobby. His artwork is not for sale but it can be purchased on occasion at different fundraisers with 100% of the proceeds going to the fundraiser.

The Boise School District has given Alan the opportunity to heal a part of his past by offering Boise Evening School. He is a grateful graduate of 2004 and feels that volunteering as a Community Education Instructor is a great way to give back!