The difference between sculpture and statuary art
The difference lies in the ways in which those art pieces are created. Sculptures are produced by using the so-called subtractive procedure in which pieces of materials like stone or wood are removed. Statuary art, in contrast, is created by adding or combining materials.
However, colloquially, both terms are used synonymously and independently from the manner of creation. Thus, both the art piece carved from wood as well as the figure that was cast from bronze or ceramic are called sculptures.
The creation of decorative sculptures
As sculptures are formed from different materials, those materials therefore have to be easily malleable and workable. Thus, materials like plaster, porcelain, ceramic, clay, concrete, plastics or metals are suited for the creation of sculptures. Among metals, bronze, copper and brass belong to the most favoured materials, but silver and wood are also used in the creation of decorative sculptures. Just as diverse as the group of materials that are used for the creation of sculptures is, as extensive and long can be the process of producing a sculpture.
A love for the arts gives rise to magnificent pieces
There is no doubt about the fact that there are decorative art sculptures which are more or less produced as mass products, but the majority of the figurines and especially the world-renowned art sculptures in the history of mankind are unique specimen. The amount of work and love that the sculptors poured into those pieces of art are clearly recognisable. This is also what contributes to the partly invaluable merit of those art works.
Born from an idea or an inspiration, the sculptors start their work, all the while having to be careful in their handling of the material, as an already removed piece cannot be re-added in the same spot. Thus, precision and a high level of artistry as well as a love for one's own work all belong to the repertoire of a sculptor.
Contemporary sculptures
Modern and contemporary art has brought about a vast number of figures that have gained world-wide fame. For example, the artist Joan Miró, who was born in Barcelona in 1893, created about 500 contemporary sculptures until his death in 1983 which can be observed in many parts of the world. Furthermore, the artist Alberto Giacometti should be mentioned when talking about modern sculptures. Giacometti was born in Borgonovo in 1901 and died in Chur in 1966. Giacometti also produced several modern sculptures, for example the "Walking Man", which has been copied quite often and in high quantities as an homage to the artist.
Modern and abstract sculptures in everyday life
Sculptures in general enjoy a great popularity. This is not only true for the figure that is observed and maybe also admired by the interested visitor of a museum, but also for the numerous little art works that we come across in our everyday lives. Often times, those are abstract sculptures.
Sculptures in public spaces
Nowadays, numerous abstract sculptures can be found in both private and public spaces. Due to their three-dimensionality, such figures are best suited as decorative objects that can be observed from all sides and give joy to the observer, or they might inspire him to reflect on or remember certain things. That is why bronze sculptures in the UK and all over Europe are often an inherent part of the design of public buildings and squares.
Berlin - City of Arts
If one is looking at Berlin, for example, one may find a variety of art works with different functions. From sculpture parks to individual sculptures in prominent places to figures which claim for themselves the functions of remembrance or warnings. One of the most well-known sculptures of Berlin is the Airlift Memorial in front of the by now closed Tempelhof airport. Another notable work of art is the "Molecule Man", created by US-American artist Borofsky, that is 30 metres tall and stands in the middle of the Spree river in front of the Allianz building. The field of pillars in the middle of Berlin, situated near the Potsdamer Platz and created as a holocaust memorial by Peter Eisenman, is also an impressive object. The particularity of those three exemplary figures is in the message that they are supposed to convey. In those places, art is supposed to be a reminder of history and to lead people to reflect on it. The observer is also allowed to just marvel at the beauty and expressiveness of those art works or to just take in the sculptures and relax.
There are no limits to both the form as well as the function of a figure. This is true for both the private and the public realm. Whether an object is made of wood, ceramic, porcelain, silver, bronze or steel: All is permitted that pleases.
A sculpture in your own home
In the UK, many friends of the fine arts use bronze sculptures to embellish their homes. May it be paintings on the wall, garden sculptures or a figurine in a functional spot in the house, art is omnipresent in private homes. Is it in yours? In many households one can find little figurines that represent angels or animals. Art works can lighten up an otherwise dull furnishing. Even a plain and minimalistic furnishing style can profit from a few effective decorative elements.
However, a sculpture is no longer just a decorative element, but also the expression of one's individual style or taste. The artist creates the sculpture which fits one's style and the art enthusiast then acquires the work of art which best suits their taste. Often, the price only plays a minor role in this, as art works are timeless and thus a good financial investment. You too can purchase sculptures that suit your taste in our shop. For this we have set up a wide range of products in our online shop that leaves nothing to be desired. Whether you are looking for military sculptures, animal figurines, angels or erotic nudes, you will certainly find them for a good price in our shop. Express your love of the arts by acquiring statues and garden sculptures that appeal to you and fit in with the design style of your home and garden. Art works are not only decorations for your home, they are also a piece of culture. When you buy sculptures, you support the artist who in turn can concentrate on his work. Who knows, for a relatively small amount of money you might contribute to the creation of a great piece of art of our times?