How to Commission the Right Sculptor

by Kelly Borsheim July 15, 1999

There are two ways to go about securing a sculptor (that I know of). One would be for you to come up with a Prospectus or Call for Entry. And then send that out to as many sculptors as you can. Basically it is an application that describes the job desired, the pay, and the deadlines. Application includes:

• application acceptance deadline date (postmarked by . . . )
• images of the work (so you have an idea if the artist is capable of producing the kind of sculpture you desire)
• notification date by you of chosen artist
• delivery date of final sculpture.
• payment schedule (deposit and payments, with the balance due upon project completion)

Other information the sculptor would need includes whether or not you need the sculptor to supply the base (for large works) that the sculpture will sit on, or, if you provide that, describe what it is (materials) and what it looks like. Also, include the surroundings and any other important information relevant to having a piece of art on long-term display. (Will it be outside or inside?) Certain materials require different kinds of care. Some should not be placed out in the elements for a long period of time.

The second approach would be to start looking at sculptors' work. Contact any sculptors whose work looks good to you and ask for a bid price. You still need to have the information listed above and anything else you can think of. It is unfair to make anyone put a bid on a job he or she does not fully understand and doing so will give everyone headaches in the long run.

Then hire the artist whose budget and/or time frame works for you or your organization. I would suspect that quality is more important than a deadline, however, make sure you feel the sculptor will produce the work when he says he will -- or at least will communicate with you a lot along the way so that you do not get any surprises.

If interested in commissioning a sculpture, we have some of our members online already and you may view their work via: Members .

If you'd like to post your job offer on the sculptor.org site, please visit: www.sculptor.org/commission.html .

Just a final note, be prepared to pay up front between a third and a half of the total fee as a deposit. This helps the sculptor not only know that you are serious (and minimizes the risk for both parties), it also greatly helps with the startup expenses, such as materials (stone, wax, clay, assistant wages, etc.) and foundry costs (if applicable). However, final payment should not be made until you have the final work in your hands (or unless you completely trust the sculptor).

I hope you find some of this information helpful.

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