Here are some frequently asked questions about the commission of a sculpture.
What really is a sculpture commission?
A commission is an agreement between a client and an artist to create a designated sculpture. This can be any size, any subject matter, figurative or animal, realistic or whimsical. We will gladly take time to discuss procedures and to exchange any and all ideas as long as necessary. The possibilities are endless, so allow free rein to the imagination There is tremendous excitement when commissioning a sculpture and our wish is to establish the best possible understanding of our client's expectations. We take great pride in the confidence and trust that allows the necessary artistic license in creating our intuitive interpretation of the clients concept.
I have an idea, where do I start?
The client often has only a vague idea of what is possible, and sometimes don’t really know what they want at all. It's always fun to discuss new possibilities.
The subject matter of my commissions vary greatly, so when you contact us, we will talk about what you are interested in. Once we discuss options and exchange thoughts and ideas, we will have all the necessary information needed to provide you with a more tangible form to visualize.
"A new idea evolves with tremendous eagerness and enthusiasm...
a verifiable obsession, demanding constant attention.
With animated strength and personality
comes this impatient expression...so anxious to be born."
What options should I be considering?
For example, do you want the subject to be figurative or animal, realistic or abstract. Size too, is to be considered. Would you like life-size or are you interested in a one-half to one-third life-size subject? What level of smoothness are you thinking of? Will the sculpture be inside or outside? What is your desired completion date? How much do you want to spend?
Do you work from photographs?
Yes, in fact, photos are necessary, even if the person or pet is readily available. Preferably, I would like to meet with them, to get to know their personality and any outstanding traits, and to take photographs and measurements, but that’s not always possible. The more photo’s of a subject you have, the better. If there is a favorite photo you would like to work from, we can do that also.
How expensive is it to commission a bronze sculpture?
This can depend on the intricacy of the piece and the amount of bronze it takes to cast it. That doesn’t mean the larger a project, the more expensive it gets. Yes, a larger sculpture will weigh more, then of course cost more, if you’re pricing bronze by the pound.
However, other considerations can fluxuate the cost as well, so keep this in mind when designing the piece. Regardless of the time involved to design and sculpt the subject, the time and cost of molding, welding and metal finishing can be about equal in some cases for a smaller piece verses a larger one. Smaller pieces that are somewhat complicated, can quite possibly be more difficult and just as time consuming in the long run. When it comes to the lost wax method of cast bronze, the larger the piece really is the most for your money. Bronze monuments will endure catastrophic events, and remain steadfast for thousands of years.
Naturally,each sculpture may have unique expenses, in regards to complex design, excessive detail or such as a one of kind piece verses a limited edition. Cost of materials, installation requirements, the length of time needed to complete the project, right down to basing and patina choices, are all factors in determining the final price of the project.
Is there a payment plan?
A payment schedule is established with installments divided into 33% increments: The first installment is paid once we agree upon the sculpture plan and sign a contract. This will help cover the expense of supplies and materials to begin. The second installment is due upon completion of the approved finished sculpture in clay, and the final installment is paid once the bronze is completed and ready to be shipped or delivered.
