About the Artist

Tom Ettel has been drawing as long as he could hold a crayon. He went to the University of Oregon and studied art, but took a 37 year break from art to work with kids.

Tom moved to Newport, Oregon in June of 2020. He loves the mysteries of the sea, as well as the unique tourist items sold in bayfront local shops. He has tasted every saltwater taffy flavor ever made.

Tom wanted to work for Disney when he was growing up. This shows in his work. It has a whimsical, comical nature. He plays close attention to small details to make each piece unique.

He does not make copies of his work. Every work is original.

Tom usually begins with a sketch, then fleshes the work out in a larger sketch book.

Sculptures have a solid wire frame, bulked out with foil, wine corks, or styrofoam. Next, they are sanded, painted with acrylics and sealed. He usually uses Apoxie, which is waterproof and resists cracking. It is safe to display sculptures outside, unless the include LED lighting.