Nate Facciolla

Nate Facciolla is a realism sculptor whose work transforms basswood into remarkably lifelike sculptures that challenge viewers’ perceptions. Specializing in sports jerseys, hats, signs, and other fabric-inspired subjects, Nate uses watercolor paints to create a translucent finish that allows the natural wood grain to subtly show through. Using chisels, grinders, and extensive hand sanding, he captures every wrinkle, stitch, fold, and texture with extraordinary detail. His sculptures are so convincing that viewers often mistake them for real fabric. Among his most meaningful works is a sculpted firefighter jacket honoring an FDNY firefighter who saved eleven people during the World Trade Center attacks.

A graduate of the College for Creative Studies in Detroit, Michigan, Nate studied automotive design before spending more than 22 years as a professional automotive clay sculptor. During his career, he contributed to the development of vehicles including the Jeep Wrangler, Jeep Renegade, and Dodge Durango. He later joined  Rivian⁠ as one of its first 250 employees, helping the company grow from a startup into a major electric vehicle manufacturer.

Since becoming a full-time artist, Nate has quickly gained recognition, while working with athletes for commissions or charities including Barry Sanders, Aidan Hutchinson, Ed Reed, Devin Hester, and Parker Meadows. He has been featured in the documentary “The State of Design “by the Michigan Design Council and remains committed to inspiring future young Artists while sharing his passion for art with his wife, Christina, and sons, Leonardo and Dylan.