About Us
Background
- Peter J. Ocello is a pioneer in anatomical model-making and preservation science, and the driving force behind Ocello Enterprises, Inc. headquartered in Fort Myers, Florida. With more than 55 years of multidisciplinary experience, Peter is not only an award-winning artist, author, and sculptor, but also a renowned inventor, educator, and consultant whose innovations have reshaped both human and veterinary anatomical education.
- Over his decades-long career, Peter has produced more than 55,000 anatomical models—used by veterinary institutions, pharmaceutical companies, and museums around the world—and created thousands of wildlife art pieces celebrated for their anatomical fidelity and artistic realism.
A Revolution in Tissue Preservation
- In 1995, Peter secured U.S. Patent #5,431,952 for his breakthrough innovation:
“A Method for the Preservation of Biological Tissue.”
This patented technology revolutionized the preservation of anatomical and pathological specimens, replacing traditional formalin-fixed samples with safer, longer-lasting, and more life-like alternatives. His method is now integral to modern anatomy and pathology teaching programs across the U.S. and internationally.
Master of Form, Function, and Fidelity
Peter is a recognized authority in:
- Anatomical model design and high-fidelity reproduction
- Freeze-dry preservation and silicone impregnation of biological tissue
- Corrosion casting and pharmaceutical drug-delivery training models
- Museum artifact preservation and conservation
- Wildlife taxidermy and artistic replication of mammalian, avian, aquatic, and exotic species
- As a nationwide technical advisor for both Innovative Polymers, Inc. (Rampf Group) and Silicones, Inc., from 2000-2013, Peter provided specialized guidance to wildlife artists, taxidermists, and model fabricators seeking to create durable, life-like representations of animals large and small.
- From 2006 through 2024, Peter served as a contributing author for Taxidermy Today Magazine, where his expertise in materials and methods helped elevate industry standards for anatomical realism and preservation artistry.
Innovation You Can Sculpt With
Under his leadership, Ocello Enterprises, Inc. along with leading industrial manufacturers, developed the KLEI™ product line, featuring:
- KLEI Epoxy Putty – for durable anatomical sculpting
- KLEI Extreme Hide Paste – for high-tack taxidermy applications
- KLEI Forma Sculpting Clay – Air Dry detail sculpting clay
Currently, the company is developing a line of hyper-detailed, anatomically accurate eyes specifically for the taxidermy and wildlife artistry industries—combining scientific precision with artistic nuance.
A Legacy of Education and Excellence
- Peter’s academic contributions are equally impressive. He founded and directed the Preservation and Research Education Laboratory at Michigan State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, where he pioneered hands-on preservation techniques for veterinary training. He also served as a Professor of Anatomy at Lansing Community College in Lansing, Michigan, where his students benefited from his deep command of the biological sciences and his gift for teaching complex anatomical concepts.
Connect with Peter
To explore collaborations, consulting, or licensing opportunities, visit:
linkedin.com/in/peter-j-ocello-058375b1.