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FAQs

Questions regarding SHIPPING, DELIVERY, INSTALLATION
Questions regarding PAYMENT AND RETURNS
Questions regarding DOCUMENTATION
Questions regarding COMMISSIONS
Questions regarding INSTALLATION
Questions regarding MAINTENANCE
Questions regarding CURATING THE GALLERY

SHIPPING, DELIVERY, INSTALLATION

HOW DO I GET A SHIPPING QUOTE?: • You can send an inquiry either directly from the detail page of the sculpture(s) you are considering, or by emailing us at info@sculpturesite.com.; • You are also welcome to call us at 707-933-1300.; • Please give us your full address when requesting a shipping quote.; • We will try to respond to you within 24 hours and can almost always give a shipping quote within 3 working days.; • We will carefully communicate all details to you as necessary for each particular work, and obtain your confirmation before shipping.

WHAT SHIPPING METHODS DO YOU USE?: • Because each sculpture is unique, we use a variety of shipping and delivery companies.; • We consider the size, weight, and material of your sculpture, and the shipping location to select the most reliable shippers and negotiate the best possible rates.; • All artworks are insured for the full replacement value.; • If requested, the shipping company will call you directly to arrange delivery.

HOW ABOUT PACKING DELICATE ARTWORKS?: • Your sculpture will be packed personally by our experienced gallery staff, by the artist, or by a professional art crating service to ensure the safest possible shipping conditions.; • For especially delicate works, we may recommend an art shipper.

WHAT IF I NEED AN EXPEDITED DELIVERY?: • We usually ship within a week of receiving full payment for the artwork and shipping. If you need it to get to you by a specific date, please indicate this in your initial request for a shipping quote.

CAN I SECURE A PIECE WHILE SHIPPING ARRANGEMENTS ARE FINALIZED?: • Yes, a refundable 50% deposit will secure your piece while the shipping/delivery arrangements are finalized.

WHAT IF THE SCULPTURE NEEDS ASSEMBLY AND INSTALLATION*?: • When specific assembly and/or securing are necessary, applicable instructions, special hardware and diagram(s) will accompany the work.; • We will work with you or with your architect or contractor for all details to ensure a perfect installation each time.; • If you prefer, we can arrange for “white glove” delivery in most locations, including assembly and installation.; • If a concrete pad or foundation needs to be created for the sculpture, this will have to be done ahead of the delivery/installation. We will supply you with all necessary details.; • Please let us know if you need any of these services before we finalize shipping arrangements.; * Please see our INSTALLATION section for more information.

WHAT IS “CURBSIDE DELIVERY”? HOW ABOUT "WHITE GLOVE"?: • Unless otherwise arranged, all deliveries are “curbside”: the box or crate will be deposited at your front door or left where the driver can safely unload from the truck. Though some drivers will move a crate a reasonable distance along a level, smoothly paved surface at your request, this cannot be expected in all cases.; • We will communicate the dimensions and weight of the crate so you can make the necessary arrangements to handle the delivery or opt for "white glove".; • If you opt for “white glove” delivery, the delivery person or team will take the sculpture to the exact location and remove any crate as needed. In some cases, a "white glove" delivery team will facilitate trying a sculpture in several locations.; • We will arrange a lift gate on the delivery truck where necessary and let you know what special equipment may be needed on your end (if any) for any particular piece.

WHAT IF MY SCULPTURE ARRIVES DAMAGED?: • We at Sculpturesite Gallery have been shipping sculptures for 28 years! We believe that the very best insurance against breakage is extremely careful packing. In very rare occurrences however, a sculpture may arrive damaged.; • If you notice any damage to the exterior of the package, please notify the driver of it before you sign for it.; • Always notify Sculpturesite Gallery immediately.; • Carefully unpack and, if possible, please take photos as you are unpacking.; • We will always work with you to either repair, replace, or refund your purchase, at your preference.

PAYMENT AND RETURNS

WHAT FORMS OF PAYMENT DO YOU ACCEPT?: • We accept payments by Visa, MasterCard, American Express*, check, and wire transfers.; • For international transactions, wire payments are preferred but credit cards are generally accepted after you clear the purchase with the bank/credit card company by phone.; * Due to American Express’s billing practices, we cannot fully refund a purchase made by American Express.

DO YOU OFFER PAYMENT PLANS?: • In many cases, yes, we can offer a payment plan. Please let us know what would be a comfortable plan for you and we will negotiate with the artist on your behalf.; • There is no interest payable with our payment plans.; • Your sculpture will be available for pick-up, delivery, or shipping as soon as it has been paid in full.

WHAT IS YOUR RETURN POLICY? CAN I TRY A SCULPTURE?: • Yes, absolutely! Sculpturesite Gallery guarantees all sculpture unconditionally. You may return any piece in perfect condition for any reason within 7 days of arrival for a full refund of the purchase price. You will receive a prompt refund (please see American Express disclaimer above) after we have received the piece back in perfect condition in the original shipping container and packaging.; • Please note that all shipping costs for receiving and returning the work are non-refundable.; • For serious inquiries, we also offer to do a Photoshop mock-up (see how we do this on this video) so you can digitally "try" a work before committing. There may be a nominal charge for more than one mock-up option, which will be credited off any purchase within one year.

DOCUMENTATION

WHAT DOCUMENTATION SHOULD I EXPECT WITH MY SCULPTURE PURCHASE?: • For each purchase, you will receive an invoice showing the details of your purchase with a photo of the artwork, which is generally sufficient for insurance purposes.; • For works that are part of an edition, you will also receive a dated certificate of authenticity with details pertaining to the edition number, the location of the signature and the place (usually the foundry) where the work was produced.; • We will also supply you with maintenance and installation instructions, if applicable.; • We will let you know if a catalog or monograph is available for purchase.; • For our preferred Collectors, we will prepare a Collector’s packet and/or include a catalog or monograph with the purchased artwork.

COMMISSIONS

I LIKE A LOT OF THE WORKS ON THE WEBSITE, BUT DIDN’T FIND “THE RIGHT PIECE”. WHAT’S NEXT?: • Sculpturesite Gallery's website shows hundreds of options, but there are many more possibilities! Please email or call the gallery and we will be glad to work with you on sourcing the perfect sculpture for your site, taste, and budget.; • If an existing sculpture cannot be sourced for you at this time, we will present you with details on how a custom commission can work best for your preferences, budget, and circumstances.

WHY SHOULD I WORK WITH YOUR GALLERY AS INTERMEDIARY?: • This is our specialty and expertise! For 28 years, we have successfully arranged all steps of the commission process for hundreds of sculptures with budgets ranging from $1,000 to $1,000,000.; • We represent a wide variety of artists working in very different materials, styles, and price ranges, offering many more options for you as the collector. You will also know what to expect with each artist ahead of time, and have a guarantee of high quality work, because each artist presented to you has been carefully selected by Sculpturesite for their exceptional skill and professionalism.; • We have extensive experience with materials and maintenance in various climates, sculpture design and engineering, paints, patinas, and finishes, sculpture siting, transport and installation, and the fascinating ways that an artist’s mind works!; • We value clear communications and good contracts.; • We are perfectly confident that you will not only get the perfect piece, but will also most likely thoroughly enjoy the entire process.; • And you have our 28 years of reputation as a guarantee of success!

WILL THERE BE A DIFFERENCE IN PRICING?: • Because of our long term relationships with our artists, we can guarantee that you will not pay more if you use our commission services.; • In most cases, the commission price will be in the same range as the price for a recently made existing sculpture.; • If the artist needs to do design work that involves a site visit, several concepts to choose from, drawings and/or maquettes, or scale models, these design costs may be additional.

WHAT IS THE COMMISSION PROCESS LIKE?: • The first step is for us to have a conversation (or detailed emails) about what you are looking for. We will ask many questions and listen to your answers.; • Based on your preferences and budget, we will narrow the artist search for you.; • Some commissions are as simple as a variation from an existing piece in a different size, finish, or color. When it is that simple, we promise we won’t make it complicated!; • If a new work is designed, we will inform you of details and options about the design process and what to expect every step of the way. Some sculptors prefer to draw, while others need to “sketch” in 3 dimensions. Scale maquettes, digital mock-ups, or full-sized mock-ups are often options. Design costs for various options will be discussed and may be wrapped into the entire project.; • This process should be informative and exciting! You can be as involved as you would like to and as is practical for the artist and process. However, we strongly feel that you will get the artist’s best work if we respect each artist’s process.; • You will also be informed about practical details, such as estimated lead time, delivery, installation, whether any site preparation is needed, and what maintenance to expect before you make your commitment.; • Once we have reached an agreement, the paperwork is prepared: we believe that clear, thorough communication and good contracts are imperative.; • The signed agreement and the payment of the initial deposit start the calendar.; • Deposit amount varies depending on the scope of the project, but is typically 50%.; • All progress payments will be predicated on a specific commission stage being completed.; • You are always welcome to approve the sculpture in person at the artist’s studio or foundry/fabricator. Otherwise, you will approve the photos of the completed work. Final payment is due before the work is shipped or delivered, except in some cases where the artist is doing the installation.; • And finally: the installation (and maybe a bottle of celebratory champagne)!

INSTALLATION

WILL I HAVE TO HANDLE INSTALLATION DETAILS MYSELF?: • Artists can often install their own work when local to your area, or for larger projects.; • A “white glove” delivery that includes installation is available in most locations.; • Sculpturesite Gallery will provide detailed instructions if you would like to install yourself or have your installers/landscapers/contractor install for you, including specifications for any prep work or specific site considerations.; • You will receive details ahead of time for any special equipment or the number of people needed.

IS INSTALLATION INCLUDED IN THE PRICE OF THE SCULPTURE?: • No, any shipping/delivery and installation costs are additional. However, we work with several different companies to get the best possible rates.; • It is often most economical for the artists to install their own work when possible.; • Some sculptures can easily be installed by your own handy person, gardener, landscaper, or contractor, but some do require specialized art handlers.; • We can provide an approximate quote for installation for any sculpture(s) of interest if we have your full address and any relevant site details (truck access on site, how far the sculpture will need to travel from the truck to the install location, whether there are stairs to navigate, ceiling height, etc.).

WHAT THINGS SHOULD I CONSIDER FOR AN INDOOR SCULPTURE INSTALLATION?: • Sculpturesite Gallery will provide any template and/or unusual hardware for wall-hung works when needed.; • For works composed of several elements, the gallery will provide detailed assembly instructions and sometimes a short video, if needed.; • Most pedestal and even free-standing works can simply be set in place and do not need to be secured.; • Steel pieces should be elevated slightly with wood or plastic blocks when placed on fine carpeting, rugs or hardwood floors to prevent condensation and staining.; • We are happy to advise on lighting and placement if needed.; • In earthquake-prone areas, please review these notes.

WHAT THINGS SHOULD I CONSIDER FOR AN OUTDOOR SCULPTURE INSTALLATION?: • For works composed of several elements, the gallery will provide detailed assembly instructions and sometimes a short video if needed.; • Is there a large enough level area to receive the sculpture, or should this be created?; • Most medium to large pieces placed on a lawn should have a cast concrete or stone base prepared ahead of time to lift the piece off the ground. This helps protect from ground splash and possible damage from garden tools and machinery. Weed whips and power mowers that jet cut grass to the side or whip up pebbles should be kept away from all sculpture. Cut grass makes a mess that can be cleaned off with some trouble; pebbles can cause permanent damage.; • Care should be taken when placing works around lawn sprinklers, as the quality of the water is widely variable in different areas. Swimming pools with chlorinated water can also be problematic. Bronze patinas can be especially affected. When in doubt, please ask us.; • Exposure to ocean spray is another situation that should be taken into consideration when acquiring a piece of sculpture. For instance, the artist can use a marine grade stainless steel, which will simplify the long-term maintenance requirements greatly.; • Steel pieces should be elevated slightly with wood, plastic, or masonry blocks when placed on wood decking or paved surfaces to prevent condensation and staining. Slight staining that may appear over the years even with this precaution can be removed with Naval Jelly (available at most hardware stores).; • At reasonable cost, custom bases or pedestals can be designed either by the artist or Sculpturesite Gallery for unique situations.; • Many large pieces already include a way to be bolted down for anchoring, or can be made to bolt down at your request.; • We are happy to advise on lighting and placement if needed.; • We can devise a specialized maintenance program for your specific situation.

DOES MY SCULPTURE NEED TO BE BOLTED DOWN?: • Bolting down is desirable where security from theft is an important issue, and for tall pieces or kinetic works in areas that may be subjected to high winds.; • Bolting down is also recommended in the case of a light or fragile piece that might be bumped, tipped, or damaged by passers-by or young children.; • Do not bolt down if the piece is very heavy and the center of gravity is low. You may want to be able to move a work easily in the future. Also, if you are in an earthquake-prone area, please note that many engineers feel that heavy stone pieces are best not pinned or bolted; it is preferable that the stone bounce and move around rather than snap off.; • Please let us know if you intend to bolt or secure your sculpture so the artist can help determine the best and least obtrusive way to achieve security for your piece.

CAN I PROTECT MY SCULPTURE FROM GRAFFITI AND VANDALISM?: • Yes, in many cases there are clear spray products available to protect metal, stone, and concrete surfaces by making the offending paint much easier to remove.

I LIVE IN AN EARTHQUAKE-PRONE AREA. WHAT PRECAUTIONS SHOULD I TAKE TO PROTECT MY SCULPTURE(S)?: • For wall-hung works: Make sure the wires are secured into the frame or a solid part of the piece, and use the specialized hangers designed to trap the wire in a maze to prevent it from jumping out. These are available through your hardware store or online. For works heavier than 35 pounds, it is advisable to use two hooks and have at least one of the two anchored into a wall stud when possible.; • Whenever possible, use a bead of QuakeHold museum putty in at least three places at the bottom of the back of the work to help secure the piece more firmly to the wall. This will prevent most artworks from banging back and forth, breaking glass and loosening hangers from the wall. For heavier works, you may consider adding a couple of mirror hangers or clips to secure the piece at the bottom. They can be painted to camouflage in many situations!; • For pedestal or table-top works and vessels: For smaller works, there are several products available for securing your valuable artworks to a shelf or pedestal. We like QuakeHold museum putty for most situations. For glass, there is also a clear gel also made by QuakeHold.; • For heavier pieces or ones that have a high center of gravity, you may need to use either an internal or external bracket. If you need help designing or installing an anchoring system, please ask. We are not engineers, but we do have 25 years of experience in an earthquake-prone area!; • If your collection includes vessels and sculptures that have top openings and they are opaque enough to hide a hidden object, you can insert a bag of lead weights to lower the center of gravity and assist the putty. Sand bags can also help for larger objects. However, this is not desirable for looks you can look down into.; • For tall pedestal or free-standing works: Each object’s weight, center of gravity, and stability should be assessed individually. You also need to assess its placement within the architectural features of the site, and risk from receiving other falling objects, projectiles, and broken glass, especially in buildings that have masonry.; • The sculpture should be secured at the bottom to the pedestal, or using an internal or external anchor, whenever possible. If the sculpture is attached to a solid base, brackets can secure the base to the pedestal instead.; • If you can load the pedestal with weights and lower the center of gravity below the location of the artwork, it is often advisable to let the pedestal move without being secured to the floor. If not, then anchoring to the floor or concrete (for outdoor installations), or adding a very heavy bottom base are the best options.; • We would be glad to speak with you about your specific situation to the best of our ability, but please keep in mind that we are not seismic engineers and cannot be held responsible in the eventuality of future losses to your artwork.

MAINTENANCE

HOW DO I CLEAN MY SCULPTURE?: • We will provide detailed cleaning instructions for any sculptures that require special instructions.; • Many surfaces can simply be dusted regularly with a soft, clean, lint-free cloth, or cleaned with a damp rag if dust has accumulated.; • Many glass sculptures should not be cleaned with Windex or other cleaning chemical.; • Never use harsh chemicals on your sculpture. When in doubt, always opt for a gentle wash that does not contain detergents.; • If your sculpture’s surface has been compromised, please contact us for specific instructions.; • Please follow these links to basic cleaning and maintenance instructions for bronze, mild steel with rust, stainless steel, and powder coated sculptures.

WHAT CAN I DO TO HELP PROTECT THE FINISH OF MY SCULPTURE?: • If at all possible, keep bronzes clear of sprinkler spray, ocean salt spray, and chlorinated pool water to avoid damaging the patina.; • In general, bronzes should be waxed 1-2 times per year if placed indoors, or 2-4 times per year if placed outdoors.; Click here to open bronze maintenance instructions.; • Most artists also recommend regularly waxing most powder coated and some painted steel sculptures, similar to caring for a car.; Click here to open powder coated and painted steel maintenance instructions.; • You can help maintain a certain state of rust on weathering or mild steel (sometimes Cor-Ten is used instead).; Click here to open mild steel maintenance instructions.; • Stainless steel can sometimes develop surface rust and this can be easily removed and the metal protected.; Click here to open stainless steel maintenance instructions.

WHAT SHOULD I KNOW ABOUT MAINTAINING MY KINETIC SCULPTURE?: • Generally, you can expect doing a yearly or twice yearly maintenance on your wind-activated kinetic sculpture. This will vary depending on your location.; • Each kinetic sculptor has specific recommendations for keeping the work in perfect working order and the Gallery will provide the corresponding instructions as needed.

CURATING THE GALLERY

HOW DO YOU SELECT YOUR ARTISTS?: • Our curators frequently visit museums, galleries, and sculptors' studios in all parts of the United States and Europe to look at new work. In addition, hundreds of sculptors from all around the world contact us each year requesting our representation.; • We select the sculptors we wish to partner with based on artistic excellence and the artist's background. Most of our sculptors have been included in fine art gallery shows and museum exhibitions in different regions of the United States and in other parts of the world. Their works have also been acquired widely by private, corporate, and/or public collectors.; • In some cases we choose to represent emerging sculptors whose vision is fresh and who have the potential to become respected, established artists. Their work must be of high artistic merit and crafted with stellar workmanship.; • In all cases, pricing must reflect the quality of the work and the career of the artist.; • Each year we review many images from the sculptors we have selected for representation to choose the most original contemporary works with the best design and craftsmanship. Every single piece we choose to display in the gallery or online is carefully selected for its intrinsic artistic value and craftsmanship, ensuring that all art selected is of the highest quality. This is why we guarantee the quality of the work we feature, unconditionally.