What's the best way to select a sculpture?
Selecting a sculpture for a home is uniquely personal. My philosophy has always been to unite the design of the inside and outside harmoniously together. Selecting a work of art for display outside is no exception.
Anything to keep in mind about the material?
The sky is really the limit with respect to material options. Most types of stone, natural or polished, are beautiful and will endure the elements. Personally, I like the clean look of metals, specifically copper that can age and patina with time. Bronze is the most popular metal for cast metal sculptures. Bronze can be quite expensive because the fabrication requires a highly skilled artisan and molds that must be created. Stainless steel is a beautiful material for a more contemporary clean look. It’s always a good idea to confirm that any piece can either withstand or be coated with a sealer to protect it from the elements or rusting.
Where is the best place to put it?
The best place to put a sculpture is where it will bring the most enjoyment. I tend to place sculptures strategically so they can also be seen from inside, and people can enjoy multiple perspectives. I would also suggest reimagining areas that are difficult to grow - a beautiful sculpture will attract the eye.
Anything to keep in mind about size?
The outside space can provide a terrific opportunity to express one’s artistic style in a “larger” way that might not be physically possible inside. One of my clients loved participating in the design of a large 12’ bronze sculpture of suspended oak leaves blowing in the wind in the center of her circular parkway. It is one of the pride and joys of her home. She had a grove of gorgeous Oak Trees nearby and the composition of the sculpture and the trees in the same area provided a stunning entry.
What about style considerations?
Style considerations should be a function of your overall home’s design. One consideration may be to forecast how the seasons in your area may impact the piece, either positively or negatively. For example, if I lived in the Northeast, I would love knowing that each year, I could look forward to fresh now falling and resting on a beautiful piece in the courtyard. The piece should fit the surrounding environment and also complement the architectural style.
Anything to consider about plantings surrounding it?
Planting around a sculpture can play a beautiful and complimentary part of the space. Plants that flower seasonally can provide additional layers of color and texture that will bring a piece to life. It is important to consider the potential height of any plantings to avoid blocking the piece, or at least be able to trim. Another consideration is installing proper irrigation that is discrete and avoids overspray. Drip lines are often a good solution.