Commissioning a Sculpture

Beckie has decades of experience in working collaboratively, combining her skills and artistic vision with the ideas of others to bring artwork to life.  A gallery of sample commission projects can be seen here.

Concept:

The commission process begins with a discussion of the client’s general concept of the project.    This initial talk can be very specific (I would like a life-size portrait bust in bronze), or quite general (I would like a sculpture for my courtyard).  The preliminary discussion includes not only the artistic ideas, but consideration of size, materials, budget, timeline and client expectations.  

Pricing:

Once the concept parameters have been defined, Beckie will provide an estimated price range for the proposed project.  The price will be further refined as specifics of the project are solidified.

Timeline:

If you have a project that is deadline dependent, whether it be an architectural element, public unveiling or a personal gift for a special occasion, Beckie will make sure that your sculpture is delivered in a timely matter. At the time of commission, Beckie will give the client a realistic estimate of when the project will be completed, based on what is currently in progress in her studio.  Rush jobs are sometimes available, but depending on the situation, a rush charge may be added to the price. 

Letter of Agreement:

Upon agreement of the specifics of design, materials and costs, a letter of agreement is drawn up that spells out all of the details of the project including description, timeline, deposit, and payment schedule.

Payment schedule:

Typically, a commission is secured with a deposit in the amount of 1/3 of the total price.  The second 1/3 is due upon client approval of the final sculpt in clay, and the balance is due upon completion of the finished sculpture, either at the time of delivery in person, or before the sculpture is shipped out. 

Progress Reports and Client Approvals:

If proximity permits, the client is welcome to come to Beckie’s studio periodically to view the work in progress.  If distance makes in-person visits impractical, Beckie is happy to offer progress reports via email images or live video conferences.  Client feedback as the sculpture progresses is welcomed. A commission is a collaborative process, and Beckie’s goal is to help you see your vision come to life.   Note: While some tweaking of the design  is expected as part of the creation process, making significant design changes after sculpting begins may incur price changes.

Portrait Commissions:

A portrait can be a head, life-sized bust, miniature bust, a relief tile or a wearable mask. Beckie is able to create portraits working both from life and from photos.  She likes to have as many angles of the subjects face as are available, including if possible full profiles from both sides.  If the individual is available to model in person, a sitting with the live model is always appreciated (and enjoyed!).  Even with a live model, Beckie will ask for several photos with different views, so that she can complete the initial lay-in of clay without the model having to sit for the full time.