Commission a Sculpture
From concept to completion, the client and artist work together to bring an idea to reality. Whether you commission a large or small, public or private sculpture, the process remains the same. These are the steps you will follow as you commission a sculpture. Payment structure may vary between artists, so be sure to inquire.
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“Where the spirit does not work with the hand there is no art” – Leonardo da Vinci
The Commission Process
1. Choosing the style of the sculpture you commission
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Finding the style of sculpture that resonates with you is the key to owning a piece that you, your family, or your organization will enjoy and value for a lifetime.
If you have a particular style in mind, any or all information you can bring to the table is appreciated including photos of sculptures or installations that reflect the style you like. We are also available for consultation in this regard. We are available to help you commission the perfect sculpture for you and your site.
2. Provide us with information
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You may find these questions helpful for you to better clarify your vision to our artists. We also are happy to meet with you and walk you through every phase of the process.
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What size would you like your sculpture to be? Where is it going to be installed? You might already have a specific size in mind, or you may utilize our expertise. We will offer additional insights and ideas for the space where your sculpture will be installed.
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What medium would you like the final piece cast in? Some commonly used casting materials are bronze, stainless steel, and aluminum.
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What is your budget? Budget considerations are of major importance when an artist is designing a piece for a client.
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What is your deadline? The foundry process can take anywhere from three months to a year depending on the size and complexity of the project.
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Any and all information that you can provide for us regarding the type of artwork you like will be helpful. Images of the site as well as pictures or links to artwork, architecture, and landscaping that you like are helpful as well.
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After the initial meeting, we will create a number of sketches and written descriptions of a few ideas to arrive at a design concept that is perfect for you.
3. Design Fee and Maquette
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Once you decide to move forward with the sculpture commission, we will go to contract. A design fee will be assessed and a maquette (small version of the sculpture) will be completed for your approval. After the maquette is approved, we will take it to at least three foundries and get initial estimates for the completion of the sculpture.
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4. Initial installment & sculpting begins
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After agreeing on the quote, the initial installment is accepted, and work will begin on the sculpture.
5. Review the sculpture & second installment due
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Once the client has approved the clay original, the second installment equaling one-third of the total cost is accepted.
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6. Sculpture sent to the foundry
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The sculpture is now ready to go to the foundry where it will be cast.
7. Client receives sculpture & final payment
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Once the sculpture is complete, the final installment is due, and the finished artwork can be delivered to the client.
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8: Installation
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The cost of delivery and installation can be included in the initial bid for the sculpture or can be handled separately by the client. Dream Big Sculpture will be happy to handle all phases of the installation process if desired.
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Please keep in mind that the process may vary slightly because each piece is unique. It may take between 3 and 12 months for a foundry to complete a sculpture depending on its size and complexity.
Let’s Get Started on your first sculpture Commission!
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When you are ready to commission your own sculpture please email us at dreambigsculpture@gmail.com or call us at 970-219-7418
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Schools, hospitals, and other nonprofits can acquire their monument for little or no cost with the use of financing ideas we have available. Contact us for details.
Contact
We are looking forward to the possibility of working with your team to create a powerful ‘art experience’ that will help enhance the architecture, elevate the community, and become something beautiful, educational, and meaningful for you.
970-219-7418