[About the Artist] 

d.p. Etlinger’s Inspiration from the earth

Armed with some old welding equipment, a few new tools, and some plywood to build a home within his workshop—d.p.Etlinger began following his creative dream two years ago.

Drawing inspiration from the inventors, artists and craftsmen of colonial America and Europe, Earthtones by d.p Etlinger evolved from a hobby into a business that offers original creations, mostly using iron and wood, and blends form and functionality.  d.p. gained expertise in welding and woodwork as a craftsman and manager for Texas Sampling, Inc. in Victoria, TX.  When he left, he was managing the steel fabrication facility.  After several years with John Hancock Financial Services in Houston, d.p. returned to manufacturing and joined Powell Electronic Manufacturing where he managed and coordinated projects. 

“I was three weeks into the graduate program at our Lady of the Lake University when I realized that I would never be happy as long as I avoided my need to do what I enjoy,” said d.p. “Motivated by natural desire and a visceral need to be creative, I left my job to pursue my passion - designing and building functional metal art pieces.”

The name, Earthtones, came to d.p. some 10 years ago, he says as a result of his Mother’s love of earth tone colors. Earthtones depicts a range of colors, products of nature, rustic appeal and simplicity - the core of all things, mother earth, a style of normalcy and yet uniquely individual.  

“I turned 30 this past June and spent 10 days in Lima, Peru celebrating the fact that I received that MBA in August 2003,” says d.p.  “Now I’m ready for the creative challenges ahead.”  

Earthtones by d.p.Etlinger is his gift to form, style and comfort.