Meet
Ray Tippet
The Artist Behind Drifting-a-Ray
Statement
From the Artist
Coastal Materials
Original Artwork
While I often work in series and revisit similar themes, each piece is one of a kind. The shapes of the sea glass, the character of the driftwood, and small compositional choices ensure no two works are ever the same.
I intentionally allow elements to extend beyond the frame to create layers and quiet surprises without overwhelming the scene. Humor and nostalgia play an important role in my work — I want viewers to pause, smile, and feel a sense of familiarity.
All pieces are original, signed, and created by hand.
Ray Tippet
Artist Bio
Ray Tippet is a Southern California–based mixed media artist and the creative force behind Drifting-a-Ray—a name that reflects both his artistic journey and his life along the coast. Rooted in exploration, curiosity, and a deep connection to natural materials, Drifting-a-Ray has become more than a body of work; it is a philosophy shaped by movement, discovery, and the stories carried by the ocean.
Ray’s artistic path began in 2016 with his Celebration Tree Series, where he transformed found driftwood into sculptural pieces that honored nature, renewal, and the beauty of repurposing. From there, his work expanded into wood carving, rock polishing, and the study of natural elements, leading him to incorporate sea glass, stone, driftwood, and metal into his evolving style. His growing interest in woodburning and painting allowed him to merge multiple disciplines, naturally guiding him into the mixed media space where texture and storytelling meet.
As his voice as an artist developed, Ray introduced several distinct yet connected bodies of work. His Coastal Series reflects the organic beauty of the shoreline, capturing the colors, textures, and rhythms of the sea. His Wharf Series draws inspiration from the character and structure of coastal life, blending architectural elements with weathered materials to tell stories of time and place. His Signature Series represents his most personal and refined expressions—bringing together his techniques, materials, and artistic perspective into a cohesive vision.
A defining element of Ray’s work is his desire to move beyond traditional boundaries. He often works outside of conventional frames, allowing each piece to feel natural, dimensional, and alive. Humor and wonder are intentionally woven throughout his creations, inviting viewers to not only observe but to connect, reflect, and experience a sense of joy. At the heart of it all is his wife, Janey—his greatest inspiration and constant companion on this journey. One of their greatest joys is their family, including their three children, Jason, Brittany, and Ashleigh, along with their spouses and two grandchildren, Oakley and Wylie, who continue to inspire a deep sense of love, legacy, and purpose in both his life and work.
Ray lives and works in San Clemente, California, where he retired in 2016 and resides in his family’s beach house—a home that has been part of his family for over 60 years. The coastline, with its ever-changing tides and quiet moments of reflection, continues to shape his creative path. Through Drifting-a-Ray, Ray captures more than coastal scenes—he captures a life shaped by place, passion, family, and the enduring inspiration of those who matter most.