COMMISSIONS
Poppy accepts a limited number of public, private and portrait commissions each year. Projects may range from intimate portrait busts to full-scale bronze figures for gardens, architectural settings, and public sites.
Portrait commissions are modelled from life where possible. They can also be created from a combination of life sittings, reference photography, and archival material.
Commissions are cast in bronze for interior, garden, and public settings.
HOW I DEVELOP A COMMISSION
1. Initial consultation
A complimentary conversation to discuss the subject, setting, scale, budget, and your hopes for the commission. This may be followed by a studio visit or site visit.
2. Proposal and agreement
I will prepare a written proposal outlining the scope, costs, timescale, and key stages. Portraits are usually confirmed with a letter of agreement; larger public, private, or corporate commissions with a formal contract.
3. Maquette or study
For larger or site-specific commissions, I may first make a small-scale maquette to explore pose, scale, and setting.
4. Clay model
The sculpture is modelled in clay. Portrait sittings can take place in my London studio or, where appropriate, at the sitter’s home. For larger works, clients are invited to view progress in the studio at agreed stages.
5. Bronze casting
Once approved, the model is moulded and cast in bronze. Foundry lead times are usually around 20 weeks, but I will confirm them with the foundry for each project. I project-manage this stage and check the wax, bronze, assembly, patination, and mounting.
6. Delivery and installation
I will advise on patina, bases, delivery, placement, and installation. For larger works, I will coordinate the artistic requirements with the foundry and relevant site specialists, and our contract will set out responsibility for transport, foundations, installation, and any required planning permission.
COST
Commission costs vary according to scale, complexity, casting, site requirements, travel, plinths, delivery, and installation. Following an initial conversation, the studio can prepare a clear proposal outlining the artist’s fee, foundry costs, production schedule and any additional requirements.