How long does it take you to make these sculptures?
Since the prices on my sculptures are based mainly on my labor time, you can easily figure out my hours by this simple formula. First, subtract 10% from the price for materials. Then divide the result by $50 (my labor price per hour). For example: Take a typical $400 piece. Subtract $40 for the materials and you get $360. Divide that by $50 and your result is approximately 7 hours.
Do you make many copies of the same pieces or is each one unique?
Although I may make several versions of a single design with the same name, EACH SCULPTURE IS UNIQUE. You see, unlike bronze sculptures - which are made by the dozens in a foundry - or 2-dimensional art - which can be duplicated by several means, there is NO way to make an exact copy of one of my pieces. Each one is individually cut out, hammered on a sandbag (with NO MOLDS), brazed together, heated to form the vivid colors and then mounted on a base - ALL BY ME. In fact, I even choose, sandblast, finish and assemble the bases! For example, you can be sure that even though I may have made and sold 6 or 8 "Tailwalker" sculptures, the one you commission will still be a unique, one-of-a-kind sculpture.
Isn't copper quite expensive?
It's sure getting that way! I use (mostly) 16oz. roofing copper. This comes in 3' by 10' sheets and I usually buy five sheets at a time. In the last year, wholesale prices have more than TRIPLED on copper sheet. That is the reason that I have had to raise my prices slightly over the last few years - and it's one reason that you rarely see copper roofs on new construction anymore!
Won't the copper sculptures tarnish?
In most cases, no. I spray an industrial clear coating on all my work. This coating is designed for copper roofs. In fact, the manufacturer guarantees the product not to tarnish for 20 years on a roof application. So it should last a LONG time on my work! Unfortunately, a side effect of this coating is that it dulls many of the fantastic colors that I am able to achieve with the heat of the torch. You should see the magentas and cobalt blues that form on the raw copper! When I spray the coating on, the solvent that carries the clear coat turns these colors into oranges and greens. Still spectacular - and much longer-lived.
What if I WANT you to leave off the finish so the sculpture will turn to that light green verdigris color like on the Statue of Liberty?
Unfortunately, that green color only shows up after many YEARS of exposure. The short term result of not clear-coating my work is that the sculpture just turns brown like an old penny. Not very attractive. I REALLY prefer the fantastic colors that I achieve with heat from the torch. It's a big part of what makes my work different from that of the hordes of other metal sculptors out there. However, I have several different methods of artificially speeding up the green patina process with commercially available chemical patinas. Contact me if this interests you.
Can I display your sculptures outdoors?
Generally, yes, my sculptures make a great addition to your pool deck, lanai or deck area. The clear coat protects the copper from tarnishing in all but the harshest environments. However, this coating does very little to protect ferrous metals - like steel. Many of my pieces have a framework made of copper-coated steel. Outdoors, this steel will eventually develop a rust patina - and pretty quickly if you live right near saltwater. It doesn't cause any damage to the sculpture, but, depending on where it is mounted, a wall hanging could leave rust streaks on your wall. Call me for any questions about specific pieces.
Do you have a gallery in Gainesville that I can visit?
No, although I do all of my sculpting in the workshop located about 50 feet from the back door of my house - it is not really a "gallery" environment! You are certainly welcome to visit me here to see how I make these sculptures, but I generally have most of my inventory packed away in my trailer ready for the next show. Instead of selling through galleries, I market all my work through outdoor art festivals in Florida and, of course, here on my extensive website!
What kind of maintenance do your sculptures need?
Maintenance couldn't be simpler: Just dust the sculptures occasionally with a feather duster. Using a cloth is also acceptable, however the plasma-cut edges of many of the sculptures will snag a cloth or paper towel. Using a feather duster is easier and quicker. If your outdoor sculpture becomes very dirty, simply hose it off.
How do I pay you for the sculpture?
Once you have decided what sculpture you would like to order, call or e-mail me. I require a 50% deposit (check or credit card) to start work on your order, with the balance due upon receipt of the finished sculpture(s).
If I order a sculpture, how will you get it to me?
The easiest way is for you to pick it up here at my shop in Gainesville. However, if you live in Florida, and can be a little patient, I can usually drop off your sculpture on my way to a nearby show. There is no charge for this service. Otherwise, I will have to crate and ship your sculpture. Click here to link to my Price List page for an explanation of crating charges. As far as shipping costs, I charge you exactly what the shipping or trucking company charges me. Call for details.
How long is your waitng list for sculptures?
It really depends on my show schedule - and the season. I can generally complete one of my sculptures for you in 3 to 4 weeks. If the piece is already in inventory, I can ship out as soon as the crate is built (figure a week to be safe). For custom commissions, the time to completion may be significantly longer as we go through the design and approval process.
Do you accept commissions for custom pieces?
Absolutely. However, don't expect much in the way of human or animal figures (other than fish, birds or sea creatures) as my technique and material really doesn't lend itself to making "muscled" arms and legs. That means no horse or dog sculptures (other than some limited wall hangings.) The best way to commission a sculpture is to let me know the size of the piece you are considering - and some thoughts on subject matter. I will sketch some ideas for you along with prices for your approval before I start work.
I don't see prices on the web pages. Where is your price list?
I have recently put up a separate page for all prices. This makes it a LOT easier on me when it is time to adjust all the prices for the rising costs of materials! When you find a piece that interests you in one of my galleries, click on the thumbnail to get a larger view of the piece - along with an explanation of the sculpture. There will also be an "Item #" (like "W110".) Click here to link to my Price List page and you will find a list of item #s and their corresponding prices.
Do you ever take on apprentices?
I don't have time!!! Someday, perhaps, when I retire from doing shows - but that's still a long way off. I still really enjoy going to different art festival venues to interact with my clients, would-be clients and folks who appreciate my artwork. It's the best part about my job!
