Commissions are done both publicly and privately. Portrait commissions generally take 6 months to complete, although actual times may vary according to the specifics desired by the client. Commissions can be done from life, photographs and posthumously. Initially, a meeting takes place to discuss expectations and needs of the commission. This meeting determines whether or not the artist, job and client are a good fit. There is an exchange of ideas, photographs and specifics to location and edition of the sculpture itself. When the subject is available it is preferred to get an array of photographs specifically taken for the purpose of the sculpture. It is also helpful to include favorite family or professional photos to aid in interpretation and expression. Although not a requirement, it can be beneficial to have the subject of the portrait sit for a few sessions to clarify structure and scale of the piece. A one third deposit is required at the beginning of the process. The client has three opportunities to meet with the artist and view the progress of the piece, these meetings are important in maintaining the integrity of the commission. At the conclusion of the third meeting, both client and artist are in agreement as to the overall feeling and appearance of the sculpture, the piece is now ready to go to the foundry. The second payment is required at this point. The foundry makes a mold of the sculpture and a wax copy is cast. The artist approves the wax and has one last opportunity to make any necessary changes. Then a bronze is cast from the wax and the artist along with the client decide on a patina or surface color for the commission. The final payment is required at the conclusion of the foundry process. It is important to remember, as with any piece of art, that the commission process is an interpretation unique to the artist rendering it. In choosing an artist one should appreciate and respond to the artists' body of work , this will insure a compatibility of client to artist. Inquiries can be directed to kymsculpture@yahoo.com
