The following is a description of the stages usually involved in commissioning a sculpture. Red text is extra stages that require the construction of a model first e.g. for an abstract piece or one where the sculptor has more freedom in determining one or more of the following; subject, theme, style. Or if the piece is going to be larger than a few feet. The yellow text are stages for a sculpture that requires a likeness of an individual. The figures in brackets are the payments that are to be made at the begining of these stages. NOTE - the quotes do not include bases of stone or wood as I usually arrange to have these made elsewhere, as a result the cost is out of my control. The exception to this is if the base is cast in bronze as part of the sculpture. In this case it will be included in the quote.
1. Initial Discussion: Discussion with client concerning objectives, subject, theme, style, size, material and estimated costs. This can be by phone or email.
2. Formal commission: you confirm to me the commission in writing by e-mail or mail and a start date and timescale agreed.
2a. Initial appointment (5%): This stage only needed if subject is to pose. Approximately one hour. I take pictures and measuments, we discuss the angle and mood of the pose. Accurate quote established. Additional travel expenses will be incured for visits to client.
2b. Submission of sculptor's idea with sketches (5%): Two or three-dimensional to clearly show idea and appearance in the proposed setting. Discussion of sketches with client. (This stage not usually required for a portrait or bust)
2c. Designing of model (10%): During this period the sculptor will establish the exact cost of the total project, unless it has been predetermined by a budget figure.
3. Work starts on the sculpture (33% less payments already made) Prices for a sculpture vary according to size and the degree of detail required in the sculpture. As a rough indication, a human figure of about 30cm is approx £500 - £2000. For a lifesize portrait or bust: total cost is approx £ 3200 - 4800. For a whole figure lifesize of an adult, from GBP £16,000 - 18,000. The above prices are for a completed bronze. If an additional base of stone, wood, or other other material is required this is not included in the price as I may have to have it made elsewhere.
3a. "Fleshing out" the portrait sculpture: I get the bust advanced to about 70% or so in clay (this is not an exact science so percentages are a complete estimate!).
3b. The second appointment: An actual sitting to make adjustments and progress the sculpture portrait. Estimated time is a couple of hours minimally. Additional travel expenses will be incured for visits to client.
4. Completion of the clay original. Client assesses the work. Sculptor either visits client or vis veras. For small pieces photos can be sent instead. Adjustments made as neccessary. Additional travel expenses will be incured for visits to client.
5. Mould Making (33%): Construction of a mould, casting, chasing and sprueing of a wax pattern. We will discuss and agree how the piece is to be cast, patinated (coloured) and mounted.
8. Casting the Artwork: I will either do this myself or get the sculpture cast in a foundry depending on its size. The process involves investing the wax in ceramic shell, burning out the wax and pouring the bronze. After this the bronze is cleaned and chased to its final form.
9. Patination & Base: Application of the agreed colour by chemical treatment and sealing in laquer or wax. .and mount the sculpture portrait onto a base if appropriate.
10. Final payment, Delivery/Shipment (34% plus delivery): Finally, upon completion of the work in bronze, I shall either bring/ship the sculpture to you or you can pick it up from myself. The cost of shipping will vary according to location.
If you are interested in this service please contact me through the 'Contact' page