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: Does Mesmerisingmetal offer delivery and installation services for their sculptures, and are there any associated costs?

At Mesmerisingmetal, I provide free delivery within an approximately 50-mile radius from my location here in Andover. For deliveries beyond this range, there will be a nominal charge to cover diesel costs. Installation is generally included with delivery for most of my sculptures, ensuring a seamless and convenient experience for my clients. However, for more complex installations such as "The Storm Catcher" and "The Vortex," which can take over a day to complete the installation and may require more than one site visit, additional time and effort will be needed. For instance, "The Vortex" required a high mounting on the front wall of a building, which involved designing a bespoke bracket. I strive to provide comprehensive support to ensure your kinetic wonder is perfectly installed in your outdoor oasis.

Q: How well do Mesmerisingmetal sculptures hold up in extreme weather conditions?

That is a very good question. At Mesmerisingmetal, I craft my sculptures to withstand a variety of weather conditions, including storms. While it is impossible to guarantee anything when it comes to the wind, especially a storm, I take great care to ensure my creations remain resilient and durable. In fact, even though I lost my entire fence last winter, all of my sculptures remained upright, even the smaller ones. That said, I am now adding ballast to all the free standing sculptures. Especially the smaller ones to ensure that no matter the wind they will remain upright. Pieces like Celestial Fury will be fixed into the ground and if it was to be blown over I imagine your house would too. 😂

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.

What Materials do you make your sculptures from?

I use 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. 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.

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.

What is the point?

mesmerisingmetal
May 5
2 min read

Feeling very very depressed.
All I want to do is enjoy my retirement by making art.

What is the point of doing anything in this country?

I love making things, and that is how this little venture started. I love my retirement, pottering around in my shed, welding and fabricating. Now, I'm selling the things I make to help fund bigger and better projects that give me a greater challenge and a greater sense of achievement.

Last year, I had to become a sole trader as the money coming in was above a thousand pounds. Yes, above £1,000.00. That is all the income that changes everything.

So, I now have to keep accounts, have an accountant—another cost to me—and submit a tax return. They are now introducing digital tax, where you have to submit five tax returns a year.

After submitting my first tax return, I now know that I have made a loss of £11,000.00.

Then my camper van insurance came up for renewal, and I informed them that I am no longer technically retired as I have had to register as a sole trader, so they increased my van insurance. Not a lot, but it went up. Also, I am not allowed to use my camper for anything to do with my sculptures as I am in business and no longer retired. So, I have to rent a van for everything that might be linked to the business. Even collecting a gas bottle for my welding is now considered business use. Or I could buy a second vehicle and incur all the costs that go along with that.

This country and its bureaucracy are just doing everything they can to stop anyone from enjoying life. I really feel like giving up. Maybe go back to building bikes, or go down the pub and get drunk.