SCULPTURE COMMISSIONS and CUSTOM AWARD DESIGNS

Asheville Bronze & Art, LLC will be happy to initially discuss (by phone or email) ideas, potentially commissioned sculpture, and custom awards, free of charge.  As discussions evolve into drawings, computer graphics, and/or travel, agreed upon fees and expenses will be necessary.

Hans Kelly Somey is an accomplished sculptor with 40+ years of experience; commissioned by large and small organizations, and individuals (see “Sculpture Commissions” and “Custom Awards”).  Sculptural projects involve many aspects of consideration:  Conceptualization (an idea), content (what the work may convey to viewers), scale (large or small), medium (materials used), time schedules (production and deadlines), presentation (indoor pedestal or outdoor installation), safety factors, maintenance, longevity, and budget (hundreds to thousands of dollars).

To many artists, particularly sculptors who work with museum quality materials, the notion of “permanence” is an important factor.  Works of sculpture made 4000 years ago are still being unearthed by archeologists.  The fact that a sculptural creation may last long after the life of a sculptor and a patron provides a great depth of spirit and meaning to both.  AB&A,LLC encourages a “partnership” between patron and artist.

Footnote:  If one considers the role of sculpture and sculptors throughout history, one can reach the conclusion that sculpture can become a “document” of history; of time and place.

SCULPTURE RESTORATION FEE SCHEDULES

EMAIL & TELEPHONE CONSULATIONS

Asheville Bronze & Art, LLC will be happy to assess the restoration of any existing sculpture for a fee of $120 (to be invoiced).  In order to provide an accurate assessment, the following guidelines are requested:

• Any known history of the work to be restored (if possible), such as approximate age, medium, title, artist, etc.

• Size of the sculpture – Please provide fairly accurate dimensions of the work (height, width, and depth).  For larger works, sometimes having a person standing beside it in the photo may be helpful.

• Weight of the sculpture – Please provide an assessment of the weight of the sculpture.  This may difficult for larger works (e.g. statues).  However, an assessment as to whether or not the work may be carried by hand or another method (lift crane, forklift, or other) would be helpful. 
• Photography – as many photographs as the client believes would be helpful toward making an informed restoration assessment.  Include multiple, full-image photographs as well as close-up details of surface or weather damage, broken pieces, cracks, graffiti, etc.  The better the photographs; the better the discussions; the better the assessments.

ON-SITE EVALUATIONS:

Asheville Bronze & Art, LLC will be glad to assist you with determining the cost and other considerations regarding sculptural work that may be in need of repair, cleaning, or patination (coloring).  Having 40+ years of sculpture experience Hans Kelly Somey has restored sculpture to a “like new” appearance in a variety of materials (bronze, ceramic, gold, silver, etc.).  Materials that are too hazardous to restore are lead, pewter, and “pot metal” (i.e. mixed metallurgy).

Mr. Somey can personally visit the location of the work to be considered for restoration.  The following fee structures may apply:

• Travel under 100 miles:  $100 minimum travel expenses plus $40 per hour of discussion, documentation, and evaluation (minimum of 2 hours) for a minimum fee of $180 which will be invoiced upon client satisfaction of the consultation.  If the client is not satisfied with Mr. Somey’s evaluations, opinions, and conclusions, only a $100 minimum travel expense will be invoiced.  No money is required at the time of the evaluation visit unless the client agrees to provide such.

• Travel between 100 to 200 miles:  $250 minimum expenses plus $40 per hour of discussion, documentation, and evaluation (minimum of 3 hours) for a minimum fee of $370 which will be invoiced upon client satisfaction of the consultation.  If the client is not satisfied with Mr. Somey’s evaluations, opinions, and conclusions, only a $250 minimum travel expenses will be invoiced.  No money is required at the time of the evaluation visit unless the client agrees to provide such.

• If agreed upon by both client and Mr. Somey, photographic documentation, possible research, and a written contract will be drawn up outlining and describing in detail the restorative efforts and desired final appearance of the sculpture in need.  Approximately two-weeks will be necessary for the formation of a contract.  Depending upon the complexity of the restoration, other fees may be discussed and applied to invoices (e.g. computer-generated images, engineered drawings, etc.)

• Over 200 miles – Airfare, hotel, and car rental travel expenses (TBD) and $200 per diem (to include travel days).

• Transportation (if possible) and insurance of the art work(s) to be restored will be discussed before entering into a contractual agreement.

Asheville Bronze & Art, LLC strives to provide only the highest quality of service and artistic vision.  Feel free to contact Hans Kelly Somey with your questions or ideas by email or phone.