In this episode of “I Am Lakeland,” host Don Burns sits down with John Keller, a local artist and retired nurse who has turned a unique hobby into a refined craft. Recorded at COhatch in Downtown Lakeland, the conversation explores John’s fascinating work creating custom-made corn cob tobacco pipes, a passion that blends historical appreciation with modern artistry.
John, originally from Fort Meade and a long-time Lakeland resident, shares how he began “dabbling” in pipe making around 2016 while still working as a Licensed Practical Nurse. His goal is to debunk the myth that corn cob pipes are merely disposable items, instead treating the factory-made bowls as a “canvas” for high-end, durable works of art.
Whether you are a pipe enthusiast, a fan of local craftsmanship, or someone looking for inspiration on how to navigate life’s “speed bumps” with grace, John Keller’s story is a beautiful reminder that any object can be transformed into art when approached with heart and intention. 55
