7 MOST IMPORTANT FACTORS WHEN BUYING SCULPTURE
Bob had a high school and university holiday job at Albie’s foundry.
AMW specialised in castings for rare vehicles. But Albie’s real passion was sculpture.
Albie would take Bob to the ‘arts end’ of the business — the furnaces and the forges. Together, they’d bring sculptures to life.
Bob knew he’d never be a sculptor. But over time, Albie instilled his love of art in Bob. He taught him the seven most important factors to weigh when buying a sculpture from an artist or gallery:
1.) WHAT’S THE PURPOSE
‘The first thing about sculpture, Bob, is why do you want it; what is its purpose?
Do you love it and can’t live without it? Maybe you see it as a legacy for the generations. Have you got an idea and want to see it realised? Does the work reflect you and your values?
‘Some people buy sculpture purely as an investment. They’re after reputable artists, and work that keeps growing in value. It’s not for everybody. I suggest buy what you love; it’ll always pay you dividends.
2.) FIND THE RIGHT SUPPLIER
The right art suppliers really care about the spiritual connection you make with your sculpture and the value you get from it.
For instance, do they have a diagnostic questionnaire to help you identify your deepest feelings for art and sculpture?
3.) TRY BEFORE YOU BUY
Some suppliers offer a free digital super-imposition service. It helps you visualise the work in your choice of location before you buy. Think of it as a confidence-boosting test drive, or a reality check that the work’s style and scale is an exact fit with all your hopes.
4.) LOOK FOR VALUE
You know Bob, sculpture can never be sold, it can only ever be bought. If it is sold, it’s most probably a con.
Listen to your emotions. When they get the upper hand over your wallet, you’re probably ready to make the value exchange.
5.) REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS:
Sculptures take time; Is it for a present next week? You’re limited to an off-the-shelf solution. Or can you spare months to have an edition of an available design re-manufactured? Maybe time isn’t the issue and you can commission a piece to your exact requirements.
Be open about your budget. There are many options, and honesty will save everyone frustration and time.
Deal only with professionals. They’ll:
- Guide you through a time-tested process and not rush a self-centred sale
- Make valuable suggestions that uncover hidden opportunities
- Have access to plenty of pre-qualified sculpture options allowing you the best choice.
6.) KEEP THE END IN MIND
What about materials and finishes? What kind of effect do you want? How long do you want it to last, especially if it’s outdoors, or in public?
7.) EDUCATE YOURSELF
Explore the reputations of the artist or gallery your working with before commissioning an original work. How well are they known? Do you feel they would be easy to work with? Do you know if they listen to ideas, and offer suggestions? Can they show you what the finished piece might look before it’s made?
Call Todd Stuart (+61 451 518 865) for absolute clarity before you invest in your sculpture.
