The
Commission
Process
"My experience of commissioning a bronze sculpture of my wonderful dog Monty was fantastic throughout. First we had to find a sculptor and were lucky enough to choose Susie.
I can't tell you how thrilled I am with the final product.
Susie is absolutely lovely and made the process clear and enjoyable throughout. I wholeheartedly
recommend using Susie."
Step 1
Share your idea
When I begin a commission I like to meet you and your pet - especially to see your pets character and personality. I take lots of photos and we discuss the desired pose of the pet - whether sitting or lying down and any particular traits they might have! If that’s not possible, perhaps your pet has passed on, then photos work perfectly.The more angles the better! During the first meeting I'll also show my portfolio of previous projects to spark inspiration for the potential pose, size and colour of your sculpture.
Step 2
The sculpture takes shape
Once we’re both clear about the vision, I’ll begin by creating a couple of small scale models in my studio. These little “sketches in clay” give you the chance to see the sculpture taking shape.
When you are happy to move forward I’ll start working on the main sculpture, keeping you updated with regular photos and inviting you to the studio to see progress. When I have finished modelling the sculpture and you’re happy, the piece will be carefully fired in the kiln - or if bronze is your choice I will carefully take the sculpture to the foundry for casting.
Step 3
A sculpture to treasure
​If you’ve chosen a ceramic sculpture, before it's fired in the kiln it is carefully hollowed out, left to dry fully and then fired in the kiln with your chosen colour.
If bronze is your preference, the sculpture will be cast using the ‘lost wax process,’ where molten bronze is poured into the cast, capturing all the detail of the sculpture.​ It is then patinated in the colour of your choice.
If your pet has passed and you would like some ashes placed in the interior of the sculpture I can do it at this stage.
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Your sculpture is then ready for collection from my studio!
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Price of the Commission
As each piece is completely bespoke, the price depends mainly on the size and material of the sculpture. We can discuss all the details at our first meeting, or if you’d like a rough idea beforehand I’m more than happy to discuss this via email or phone.
Ceramic Outcome
Utilising clay as my primary medium​ ceramic sculptures undergo firing in the kiln, allowing for a diverse array of glazes and oxides.
Bronze Outcome
Utilising bronze as my primary medium, my sculptures undergo a process of casting and finishing, resulting in a range of patinas and surface textures.