Commissioning a sculpture is a great way to get a unique piece of art for your home or office. Whether you want a life-size portrait bust or a full-figure statue, there are several things to consider before the process starts.
First, a mini clay model is created so you can approve the details, pose, and “feel” of your artwork. Once you’re satisfied with it, the artist will start on the real thing.
Cost
Commissioning a sculpture is a great way to capture the personality of someone you love. It’s also a way to ensure a legacy that will be cherished for generations to come.
Before committing to a sculpture commission, it’s important to understand the costs involved. These can vary significantly depending on the artist and the material used to create the art piece.
For example, a bronze sculpture is likely to cost more than a clay sculpture because it will need to be cast in metal before it can be completed. The cost of this can quickly add up to a large sum of money.
In addition to the cost of materials, a commissioned art piece will also need to be insured. It will also need to be shipped to its final destination. If you’re concerned about shipping fees, it’s a good idea to discuss these details with the artist before committing to a commission. This will help you avoid any unnecessary expenses and ensure that the piece is delivered on time and in excellent condition.
Time
Sculpture is one of the hardest disciplines to master, and commissioning a piece requires a substantial amount of time and effort on both sides.
The process varies depending on the complexity of the task, but an average commissioned work can take anywhere from eight to twenty weeks for clay and an additional eight to sixteen for bronze. The process is made more efficient by the use of state of the art digital CAD and 3D printing techniques.
The actual cost of the sculpture varies as well, and is often dependent upon the material chosen. Typically the best way to calculate this cost is to estimate the price of the materials and multiply it by the total number of hours in the production phase. This will provide you with an approximate figure to base your budget on. In addition to the costs outlined above, you should also factor in shipping and installation charges as these are often included in the finished product.
Materials
Sculpture commissions can be made in ceramic, bronze, stone or resin and range in size from miniature sculptures to monumental. They can be figurative, portraits, busts or wildlife.
The sculptor will work with you to create a unique sculpture that meets your specific needs and fits within your budget. They will need as much information as possible about the piece you want, including the medium and the size you are looking for.
A sculptor may also need to know what type of base you will be using. This will affect the cost of the sculpture.
In addition to the materials needed for a sculpture, you may need to provide reference images or sketches. This allows the artist to start the process of creating your piece.
Design
Commissions are a great way to create a one of a kind sculpture that you and your family or business will cherish for years. The design process is a collaborative effort between the artist and the client.
First, brainstorm ideas for a unique sculpture that fits your needs. This could include a figure, bust, portrait, wildlife or bas relief.
Next, ask if the artist will create a drawing or small maquette (model) of the desired piece. This will allow you to visualize the sculpture before committing to a final purchase.
This is also the time to detail your requirements, including how often you will receive visual updates on the progress of your work. This can be in the form of drawings, progress photos or videos.