Q: What types of kinetic sculptures from Mesmerisingmetal are suitable for small gardens?

At Mesmerisingmetal, I craft a variety of kinetic sculptures that can transform even the smallest garden into an artistic outdoor oasis. Most of my sculptures are designed to perform well in turbulent wind conditions, which are commonly found in smaller garden spaces. My popular pieces like The Irregularity, The Eternal Flame and Crescent Trinity are excellent choices for such environments as they gracefully oscillate and spin, capturing the eye with every gust of wind. However, for sculptures like The Storm Catcher and Wheelie Windy, which rely on a steady flow of wind to function optimally, a more open and less turbulent setting is recommended. Whether you have a cozy corner garden or a spacious lawn, I have a mesmerising metal creation that will beautifully enhance your outdoor space.

Q: How should I maintain and clean my Mesmerisingmetal kinetic sculpture?

To keep your Mesmerisingmetal kinetic sculpture looking its best, follow these steps: 1. Avoid high-pressure cleaning, especially around the bearings. 2. Use warm soapy water and a sponge for regular cleaning, similar to washing a car. 3. Rinse thoroughly with a regular hose. 4. Apply metal polish or car wax to remove water marks. 5. Use supermarket furniture polish spray to remove fingerprints. These steps will help preserve the beauty and functionality of your sculpture.

Q: How should I choose the ideal location for my Mesmerisingmetal sculpture in my garden or open space?

A: Selecting the perfect location for your Mesmerisingmetal sculpture is indeed a personal decision. Here are some important considerations to ensure your kinetic sculpture becomes a mesmerising focal point in your garden or open space: 1. Visibility: Ensure the sculpture is placed in a spot where it can be easily seen and appreciated. Consider whether trees, hedges, or bushes might grow over time and obstruct the view. 2. Wind Considerations: Kinetic sculptures thrive in the wind, so it’s crucial to locate an area with enough breeze to keep the sculpture in motion. Check if the spot is prone to consistent winds, which will enhance the movement and visual appeal of the piece. 3. Sunlight: Depending on the materials and colors of the sculpture, you might want to place it in an area where sunlight can highlight its features during different times of the day. 4. Maintenance: Consider accessibility for cleaning. Some sculptures may require occasional cleaning, so ensure the site allows easy and safe access. 5. Integration with the Surroundings: Think about how the sculpture will harmonise with the existing elements in your garden or open space. Placement near water features, flower beds, or pathways can create stunning visual cohesion. At Mesmerisingmetal, I am always here to provide additional guidance and support in helping you find the ideal location for your kinetic sculpture. Your satisfaction and the enhancement of your outdoor oasis are our top priorities.

Q: Can you create custom-sized kinetic sculptures for my garden? Are there any size restrictions?

Absolutely! I can create custom-sized kinetic sculptures to perfectly fit your garden's unique aesthetic and space. While I can craft sculptures in almost any size, smaller pieces may have limitations due to the intricacy of the design and the availability of suitable bearings. Let's discuss your specific needs and any potential challenges to ensure you get a piece that meets your vision. Feel free to reach out via phone or email for a detailed conversation.

Q: Why do you require a 25% deposit for commissions?

A 25% deposit is required for all commissions to secure your order and cover initial material costs. This deposit allows me to begin the creative process and dedicate resources to your bespoke kinetic sculpture. It also shows your commitment to the project. The remaining balance is due upon completion and approval of the final piece.

Q: How will your sculpture be delivered and installed?

Around 50 miles from Andover, I usually deliver free of charge. If you’re further away, I’ll add a small travel charge to cover the journey. Most sculptures are installed for you as part of the delivery, so the piece can settle into place properly. For larger or more complex works, I’ll quote installation separately before you order. Simple. Clear. And ready for your space to come alive.

Q: How do your sculptures perform in strong wind and bad weather?

I design my sculptures to handle real outdoor conditions, including strong wind and storms, but I can’t guarantee any piece in extreme weather. I build for resilience, and I now add ballast to all free-standing sculptures for extra stability. If your space is especially exposed, get in touch and I’ll help you choose the right piece for it.

Q: What types of bearings do you use in your sculptures, and how durable are they?

I use sealed stainless steel bearings in my sculptures for superior protection against environmental elements and minimal maintenance. In some cases, I may use standard sealed steel bearings. Both types are designed to last for many years. For example, my "Wheelie Windy" sculpture has been operational for over five years, enduring multiple storms. This ensures my sculptures remain durable and mesmerising for years.

Q: Can I select a different stand for my sculpture?

Absolutely! If you prefer a different stand or size for your sculpture, please contact me to discuss your options. I'm always happy to collaborate with you to ensure you get a piece that meets your vision while maintaining the mesmerising quality of my work.

Q: What Materials do you make your sculptures from?

I generally 316 and 304 stainless steel and a few bits of aluminium. If you live on or very near the coast I would make it entirely from 316 stainless steel as 304 would show signs of corrosion after a few years. I can use any other material from Corten, Brass, Copper, mild steel. I prefer stainless steel for its appearance and durability.In a normal outdoor environment 304 is absolutely fine and will last for years. 316 is a marine grade stainless steel and even that can corrode in salt water.

Q: Delivery and Installation cost

Delivery / installation in the UK is generally just the cost to me of diesel getting to your place and back. If I had to get to Ireland I would add the ferry cost.If I were to send the sculpture I would have to pay to have a crate made and then freight on top.And you would have to assemble and install the sculpture. So this is not really a viable option.

Q: How to Commission a bespoke sculpture?

How Does Commissioning a Sculpture Work?One of the questions I'm asked most often is, "How does commissioning a sculpture actually work?"The simple answer is that it starts with a conversation.Most people who get in touch don't arrive with a detailed drawing or a fully formed idea. More often, they have a space they'd like to fill, a gift they'd like to commission, or they've seen one of my sculptures and are wondering if I could create something similar.That's absolutely fine. In fact, it's often the best way to start.Working from my workshop in Andover, Hampshire, I create sculptures for clients across the UK. I've found that every commission develops differently. No two clients are the same, and no two sculptures are the same either. That's one of the things I enjoy most about creating bespoke work.While I'm best known for kinetic sculpture, I also create static pieces, so whichever direction your idea takes, this should give you a good sense of how the commissioning process works.The First ConversationOur first conversation is simply about getting to know the project.We'll talk about where the sculpture will live. Is it indoors or outdoors? Is it for a garden, a business, a public space or a private collection? Would you like a kinetic sculpture that moves with the wind, or something stationary?We might also discuss the size, materials and the type of finish you'd prefer, whether that's a mirror polish, a patterned finish or something else that suits both the sculpture and its surroundings.Sometimes we'll talk about budget, but just as often we'll spend most of the conversation discussing the feeling you'd like the sculpture to create.You certainly don't need all the answers before getting in touch. Part of my job is helping to develop those ideas into something that works well both visually and practically.Developing the DesignOnce we've talked things through, I'll begin developing some ideas.That might start with sketches or simple drawings, which we can discuss together. Sometimes the first idea is the right one, but more often the design changes as we talk things through and explore different possibilities. It's all part of the process.This is one of my favourite parts of a commission because it's where ideas really start to come together. Clients often suggest something that takes the sculpture in a direction neither of us expected, and that's often when the most interesting designs emerge.Choosing the Right MaterialsI predominantly work in stainless steel. Although it's one of the more challenging materials to work with, it's incredibly durable, reflects light beautifully and is particularly well suited to kinetic sculpture. It also stands up exceptionally well to the British weather.That said, stainless steel isn't always the right choice.I've also worked with mild steel, Corten steel, aluminium, copper, brass and glass, and I'm always interested in exploring new materials where they suit the design. Sometimes a combination of materials creates exactly the effect a project needs.If you have something different in mind, I'm always happy to discuss it.Making the SculptureOnce the design has been agreed, the sculpture moves from paper into the workshop.This is where everything starts to come together. Components are cut, fabricated, assembled, adjusted and refined until everything works as it should. With kinetic sculptures, movement is every bit as important as appearance, so I spend a great deal of time making sure the finished piece moves smoothly and naturally.I still enjoy that stage where the sculpture begins to take shape. Up until then it's only existed as drawings and ideas. Seeing it come together in metal is one of the most satisfying parts of the whole process.What About Cost?Every commission is different, so there isn't a standard price.The final cost depends on factors such as size, materials, complexity and installation. Once we've discussed your ideas, I'll provide a clear quotation so you know exactly what's involved before any work begins.To secure a commission, I normally ask for a 25% deposit before work starts, with the balance payable on completion.How Long Does It Take?This is another question I'm often asked, and the honest answer is that it depends on the sculpture.A commission based on one of my existing designs can often be completed in around four to eight weeks, although this depends on the materials required and what other work I have on at the time.A completely new design may take longer, particularly if we're developing something from scratch.Once we've discussed your ideas, I'll be able to give you a realistic timescale and keep you updated as the work progresses.A Sculpture Made for Its SpaceOne of the things I like most about commissioned work is that the finished sculpture is made specifically for the place where it will live.Sometimes a client likes one of my existing sculptures but would prefer it to be larger, smaller or made from a different material. Other times, the commission develops into something completely new.Either approach is equally enjoyable because the aim is always the same—to create a sculpture that feels right for both its location and the person commissioning it.Whether it's a private garden, a business, or a public space, I enjoy the challenge of creating something unique that people will hopefully enjoy for many years to come.Let's Have a ChatIf you've been thinking about commissioning a sculpture but aren't quite sure where to begin, don't worry about having everything worked out.Whether you have a detailed brief or just the beginnings of an idea, I'm always happy to have a chat and see where it leads.Although I'm based in Andover, Hampshire, I regularly work with clients across the UK, so wherever you're based, please feel free to get in touch.After all, every sculpture starts with a conversation.

Embracing Artistic Integrity: My Journey with Commission Opportunities

mesmerisingmetal

Jun 12

4 min read

Navigating New Horizons

A few weeks ago, I was approached about a potential cruise ship commission. It was an exciting opportunity. After signing the NDA, I spent several days researching navigation. I developed concepts ahead of my meeting with the curatorial company.

At that point, I still hadn't received a detailed brief. Nevertheless, I persevered and created a range of ideas centred around navigation, movement, and interaction.

The brief finally arrived on the day of the meeting. To be honest, I was disappointed. Many of the concerns I had suspected were confirmed. Creating moving sculptures for a cruise ship introduces a host of challenges: health and safety, reliability, maintenance, durability, and passenger interaction.

I attended the meeting to understand the project fully and explore a way forward. The meeting itself was positive. The team liked my concepts and were enthusiastic about the ideas. However, it became clear that many practical aspects of the project had not yet been fully resolved. They also explained that the deadline might be extended, but only by a maximum of two weeks.

The Challenges of Kinetic Art

I was asked to simplify the sculptures to address health and safety concerns, reduce manufacturing costs, and fit within the available budget. Additionally, they wanted CAD concept models for five interactive kinetic sculptures within a week. Final approval would not be given until August, yet all five sculptures would need to be designed, built, tested, and ready for delivery by November.

I didn't decline immediately. Instead, I spent several days working through the concepts. I simplified designs, reduced manufacturing time, and searched for ways to make the project work. However, the more I worked on the CAD models, the more I realised something important.

The sculptures were no longer improving. They were becoming compromises.

For me, every sculpture I create should be an improvement on the one before it. I am constantly pushing my work forward, both artistically and technically. As I simplified the designs, I realised I was moving in the opposite direction. The sculptures no longer felt like my work. Most importantly, they were not pieces I would be proud to put my name on.

The Decision to Decline

At that point, the decision became clear. I politely declined the commission before any further time or resources were invested by either party. Of course, turning down a cruise ship commission might sound unusual for an artist. However, I believe that knowing which opportunities to walk away from is just as important as knowing which ones to pursue.

Interestingly, around the same time, I was offered another commission for a series of small tabletop sculptures. The deadline was extremely tight, and the budget was between £75 and £100 per sculpture. Once again, I chose to decline.

Discovering My Value

What both opportunities confirmed is that people are finding my work. For years, I was told that I should pay somebody to build my website because I wouldn't be able to do it myself. Instead, I built it my way. The fact that these opportunities found me through that website tells me it is doing exactly what it was designed to do.

So although neither commission moved forward, I don't see the experience as a failure. Far from it. It reminded me that my work has value, that people are discovering it, and that staying true to my artistic vision matters more than saying yes to every opportunity that comes along.

The Power of Artistic Integrity

In the world of art, integrity is paramount. It’s easy to get swept away by the allure of commissions and the promise of recognition. However, I’ve learned that true success lies in creating work that resonates with my vision. Each piece should reflect my passion and dedication.

When I look back on my journey, I see the importance of remaining authentic. Each decision shapes my artistic path. By choosing to decline projects that don’t align with my values, I’m carving out a space for work that truly represents me.

A Journey of Self-Discovery

This journey has been one of self-discovery. I’ve learned to trust my instincts and listen to my inner voice. It’s a delicate balance between ambition and authenticity. As I navigate this path, I remind myself that every opportunity is not necessarily the right one.

I’ve also come to appreciate the importance of community. Engaging with fellow artists and enthusiasts has enriched my experience. Their support and insights have been invaluable. We share a common goal: to create art that inspires and captivates.

Looking Ahead

As I look to the future, I remain hopeful. New opportunities will arise, and I will approach them with an open heart and mind. I will continue to create kinetic sculptures that bring joy and wonder to gardens and open spaces.

I am committed to fulfilling custom visions for clients while staying true to my artistic integrity. My work is a reflection of my journey, and I am excited to see where it leads me next.

And if there's one thing I've learned throughout this journey, it's this: Never tell me I can't do something.

In the end, it’s about more than just commissions. It’s about creating art that speaks to the soul, that dances in the wind, and that leaves a lasting impression.